Imagine brushing your teeth expecting the refreshing taste of toothpaste and a clean smile — only to notice blood on your toothbrush. It can be scary to notice bleeding gums, but usually, the cause is not serious. You should visit a periodontist for bleeding gums, as they are a symptom of gum disease. If you’re wondering, “Why do my gums bleed when I brush my teeth?” carry on reading this blog.
Reasons Your Gums Might Bleed When You Brush Your Teeth
Although bleeding gums are a major indication of gum disease, it’s not always the reason you might notice blood when brushing your teeth. Here are a few reasons your gums are bleeding when brushing:
1. You are Brushing Too Hard
You need to adopt a gentle approach when brushing your teeth. If you don’t, you can aggravate your gums and cause bleeding. Using too much force when brushing does not mean you’ll have cleaner teeth, but it could mean bleeding gums. Moreover, aggressive brushing can lead to the weak tooth enamel as well. Not only this, but vigorous brushing can also lead to receding gums.
To avoid bleeding gums when brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Furthermore, always apply gentle pressure and clean your teeth in by making circular motions with the toothbrush. You can consult your dentist on the best way to brush your teeth.
2. You Might Have Gum Disease
Bleeding gums is a known sign of gum disease. Gingivitis occurs in the early stages of gum disease, causing symptoms like redness, swelling, irritation, etc. If left untreated, it can progress into a more harmful form of gum disease; periodontitis.
You should visit your dentist or periodontist for a dental examination if you suspect gum disease. They can catch it in its early stages and treat it accordingly. Treatment might include scaling and root planing.
3. You Have a Dental Abscess
Untreated cavities can allow bacteria to enter the crevices, affecting the dental pulp and causing infection. Infection at this site might lead to swollen tooth roots. As a result, your gums could become inflamed and irritated. Therefore, brushing and flossing along this area can be quite painful and lead to bleeding.
Your dentist can treat an abscessed tooth by draining the area. Sometimes, a root canal might be needed to heal the infection and save your tooth. If the case is severe, the dentist might suggest a tooth extraction to avoid additional dental problems.
4. Your Dentures Don’t Fit
Dentures are a tooth replacement option. They should allow you to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. Gradually, though, your mouth changes shape due to bone loss. This can lead to ill-fitting dentures, which might irritate your gums. You might face oral health issues like bleeding gums, mouth sores, and more. Visit your dental specialist to deal with this issue in an adequate manner.
5. An Underlying Health Condition is to Blame
Bleeding gums when brushing might be a symptom of an underlying health condition. For instance, consuming a blood thinner can cause your gums to bleed when you brush. Moreover, pregnancy might also contribute to blood when brushing teeth. Other than this, vitamin deficiencies can also cause this condition.
What to Do?
If your gums bleed when you brush, it could be due to multiple reasons. Your dentist or oral healthcare provider can help you eliminate the issue. Gateway Family Dentistry is always here to help at 13029 Stockdale Hwy, # 100, Bakersfield, CA 93314. You can also schedule an appointment with us by dialing (661) 829-7905.