Most people panic when they notice their gums are bleeding and wonder what may be the cause. Bleeding gums happen for several reasons, but the most common cause is an alteration of your dental routine. This may either show up as pink spots on your toothbrush after brushing your teeth or heavy bleeding when flossing. In any case, gum bleeding should not be overlooked. If you are wondering what’s causing your bleeding gums, we’ll talk about four common causes to consider below.
Rough Brushing or Flossing
Brushing your teeth roughly or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can scratch your gums, resulting in bleeding. Flossing incorrectly or irregularly may also cause bleeding. If you are experiencing bleeding gums, take a moment to consider your teeth cleaning routine. If you have been brushing hard or using a hard toothbrush, switch to soft bristles and gentle brushing.
Ill-Fitting Dentures
When fitted poorly, dentures can slip from their position and injure your gums. Such injuries could cause sores or bleeding in your gums. Ill-fitting dentures can also cause plaque buildup, leading to bacteria and germs that can result in problems for the gums. It’s important to get your dentures fitted by a professional and to report any discomfort promptly.
Gingivitis
Bleeding gums are one of the symptoms of gingivitis, popularly referred to as gum disease. Gum disease can be caused by plaque buildup, bacteria infections, and poor overall oral health. More often than not, gum disease can lead to symptoms like bleeding, inflammation, and receding gums. In such instances, you should speak to your dentist right away.
Side Effects of New Medication
Blood thinning medications are known to affect not only the blood’s ability to clot, but also gum sensitivity. As a result, bleeding gums could be a side effect of a new medication that you’re on. In addition, hormonal changes have also been linked to bleeding gums. Remember that each person’s body responds differently to hormonal changes, so if you experience bleeding gums, we recommend that you consult with a dental professional.
Contact Gentle Dental Maine!
If you are a resident of the Southern Maine region and have noticed that your gums are bleeding, please contact our team at Gentle Dental Maine! Our family dentists specialize in general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry services at each of our offices in South Portland, Biddeford, and Topsham. Give us a call at any one of our offices, or if you’re not yet a patient with us, please fill out the new patient form on our website!