5 Reasons Your Gums May Be Bleeding and How to Stop the Bleeding

If you have suddenly noticed that there is bleeding every time you brush, then you are likely to be concerned. The good news is that most of the reasons that your gums bleed are not serious. The bad news is that some can be. We recommend contacting California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for a complete dental exam and cleaning to find out what the issue is. In the meantime, read on to learn about five of the most common reasons gums bleed.

1. The most common cause is gingivitis

Gingivitis, which is another name for the first stage of gum disease, involves plaque forming on the gum line. If it is not brushed or flossed away in a timely manner, the gums can become infected. This can lead to gingivitis. When a person has this condition, their gums are likely to be swollen, tender, and they can bleed during brushing or flossing. The best way to prevent this issue is to brush and floss regularly.

2. Some medications can cause the gums to bleed

There are specific blood-thinning medications that can cause gums to bleed. These medications actually work by preventing the blood from clotting. This can save your life in certain instances, but it can also lead to bleeding more easily. If you are taking any type of blood-thinning medication then we hope you will let us know when you visit.

3. A change to flossing habits

If you have not been flossing as regularly as you should and begin a good regiment, then you may see some bleeding for the first few days. If it goes away after that then it is likely not a problem. However, if it continues to happen, then it is worth mentioning to your dentist.

4. A hard-bristled toothbrush

If you have started brushing with a new toothbrush then it could be to blame for your bleeding gums. If the bristles are harder than you are used to, then it could result in bleeding. This is one of the reasons that we always recommend using soft-bristled brushes unless there is a specific reason to use a harsher brush.

5. Processed foods can lead to bleeding gums

There are certain components of certain processed foods that can result in gum irritation. The best way to avoid this is to stick with healthy foods like fruits and veggies. Getting enough vitamins and minerals can also help prevent bleeding gums.

It is always worth a visit to your dentist to find out what is happening

If you are not 100% sure if you should visit your dentist about your gum bleeding then we highly recommend erring on the side of caution. At California Dental Group, we are ready to set up your appointment. Just contact us at (800) 407-0161 for more information.