Have you been brushing or flossing your teeth when you’ve noticed that your gums are bleeding? You likely wondered if it was a sign of a serious problem and what you should do to stop it. You’ve come to the right place! Our team at Austin Pearls Pediatric Dentistry has put together this guide on how to prevent bleeding gums.
Why Do My Gums Bleed?
Identifying why your gums are bleeding will help you work to address it. There are several potential causes for bleeding gums, such as gum disease, inflammation, brushing too vigorously, injury, pregnancy hormones, a clotting disorder, nutrient deficiency, and more. Gum disease and inflammation are usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Thus, bleeding gums can be an early sign of gums that are irritated by bacteria.
How Can I Prevent Bleeding Gums?
If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend improving your oral hygiene routine. Bleeding gums can occur when plaque builds up along the gum line because of poor oral hygiene. To address the issue, brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day. Relatedly, make sure you’re not brushing your teeth too vigorously as this can cause gums to bleed. Instead, gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for a full two minutes.
In addition to improving your oral hygiene routine, there are other steps you can take to prevent bleeding gums. Drink plenty of water, get routine dental cleanings, consume a balanced diet, and consider supplementing with a multivitamin. If you’re a smoker or use other tobacco products, quit as soon as possible. Tobacco increases your risk for gum disease, oral cancer, bad breath, tooth decay, and tooth discoloration.
If your child has bleeding gums, please contact us today to schedule their appointment at Austin Pearls Pediatric Dentistry!