There are a few reasons your gums might bleed when you brush your teeth. Some of the most common culprits include brushing too hard, using an abrasive toothbrush, and using toothpaste too strongly. To help avoid this problem, brush properly and use the right toothpaste for your oral hygiene needs.
Additionally, if you have a gingivitis condition, your gums might bleed because of the inflammation caused by the infection. In extreme cases, gingivitis can lead to tooth loss. To help prevent this, ensure regular dental check-ups and treat any diseases.
Tooth brushing and gums
Tooth brushing is one of the most important habits you can develop for oral health. According to the American Dental Association, brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time is essential. When you brush your teeth, you remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing also helps move food and breath away from your gums, which may cause bleeding.
If you experience bleeding when you brush your teeth, you can do a few things to prevent it. First, make sure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Stiff bristles can irritate your gums and cause bleeding. Second, brush at least half of the surface of each tooth in circular, back-and-forth motions. And finally, don’t forget to floss! Flossing removes plaque and bacteria between your teeth and the gum line, reducing the chances of developing dental problems like gum disease.
If you have braces, it’s essential to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Brushing and flossing can also help remove plaque and food from the brackets and wires that hold your teeth in place.
Causes of gum bleeding
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums. The most common cause of gingivitis is plaque buildup on the teeth. This plaque can be supersaturated with blood and bacteria, which can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gums. Other causes of gum bleeding include oral cancer, root canal procedures, and periodontal (gum) surgery.
To prevent gum bleeding, brush your teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste. Make sure to brush the back and sides of your teeth and the surfaces around your chewing areas. Spit out the toothpaste after brushing, so it doesn’t accumulate in your mouth. And avoid drinking water after brushing because it can make plaque harder to remove.
If bleeding from the gums is persistent, see a dentist for an evaluation. In some cases, simple treatments such as antibiotics or mouth rinses may be enough to stop the bleeding.
Treatment options for gum bleeding
Bleeding gums can be frustrating, but there are many options for treatment. Here are a few tips to help reduce the bleeding and ease your pain:
- Try using a softer toothbrush. Some people find that a soft toothbrush is gentler on the gums and less likely to cause bleeding.
- If brushing doesn’t seem to work, try using fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps to stop the bleeding by strengthening the teeth and gum tissues.
- Apply pressure to the gums with your finger or a soft cloth after brushing. This can help to stop the bleeding and relieve pain.
- If the bleeding is severe, see a dentist for evaluation. A dentist may recommend various treatments, such as suturing the gums or using a dental dam (a thin piece of material placed over the teeth during dental surgery).
- If the bleeding is severe and doesn’t seem to stop on its own, see a doctor. Sometimes, a doctor may need to insert a needle into the gum to stop the bleeding.
Conclusion
There are a few reasons your gums might bleed when you brush your teeth. The most common sense is plaque buildup on your teeth – this can cause the gums to inflame and bleed. If you have sensitive teeth, brushing with specific toothpaste or fluoride products might cause your gums to bleed. In rare cases, gum cancer can also lead to bleeding gums. If you notice any signs that suggest your gums are bleeding more than usual, such as redness, swelling, or pain, it’s essential to see a dentist for an evaluation.
