You’re brushing your teeth when you notice a little bit of blood mixed with your toothpaste. Is this common?
The answer is yes. Bleeding gums are extremely common. In fact, the Canadian Dental Association reports that 7 out of 10 Canadians will develop gum disease at some time in their lives.
But common is not the same as healthy. In fact, healthy gums should not bleed regularly. This means that while some causes of bleeding gums may be easily treatable, it’s important never to ignore this symptom. The sooner you figure out why your gums are bleeding, the sooner you can get them treated. Read on to find out what you can do to improve your gum health with the support of your dental health provider:
Dental Hygiene
Poor dental hygiene is one of the leading causes of bleeding gums. Even if you brush your teeth regularly, you may be brushing too hard or ignoring the sensitive zone where your teeth meet your gums. Plaque build-up in this region can result in sensitive or bleeding gums and lead to Gingivitis (swollen, sensitive gums) or other serious gum diseases.
The best practice for brushing is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush in a circular motion to lightly stimulate the gums and gently remove plaque. You should brush twice daily for two minutes each time. Your dental team can watch you brush to make sure you’re using the right technique. Change your toothbrush regularly (every 2-3 months), and make sure to floss your teeth every day. Flossing is a crucial part of maintaining good health for your teeth and gums!
Lifestyle & Diet
Leading a healthy lifestyle can have a huge impact on your oral health.
Healthy food choices include reducing refined sugar consumption and eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Bypassing sweetened drinks and hydrating with fresh water will help keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.
Quitting smoking is another major factor in the health of your gums. Smokers are much more likely to suffer from gum diseases and poorer oral health than non-smokers.
Believe it or not, reducing stress can even positively influence the health of your gums. Emotional stress can lead to poor diet and hygiene, which in turn can result in bleeding gums.
Other Causes
Beyond the common causes, bleeding gums can also be caused by many conditions, including bleeding disorders, blood thinners, Leukemia, Diabetes, hormonal changes (including pregnancy), vitamin deficiencies, and even Scurvy! It’s always best to consult your dental team if you’re experiencing bleeding gums, especially if you don’t notice improvement within a week or so.
Trust Your Dentist
East Kildonan Dental is the perfect team of dentists in Winnipeg to help you with your bleeding gums or any other dental needs. Whenever you have questions about your teeth or gums, it’s always best to seek professional consultation and get your oral health on track with confidence.