How to Get My Gums to Stop Bleeding
If your gums start to bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, you might not think too much of it. But bleeding from your gums is an indication an underlying problem.
Factors such as brushing too vigorously, an injury, a pregnancy, and inflammation from infection can contribute to bleeding gums. Gum inflammation will cause a change in color from a healthy pink to red, swelling, and increased tenderness, and it can be a common sign of periodontal disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar are allowed to build up on your teeth.
Identifying the cause of your bleeding gums is the key to then determining the appropriate treatment. Once you know the cause, a pregnancy versus gum disease, you can choose from these suggested ways to stop the bleeding.
Methods to Stop Bleeding Gums
See your dentist if gum bleeding does not stop within seven to ten days. You may need a deep dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar and promote gum healing. Your dentist could also order lab work to check for any vitamin deficiencies that might be causing your gum bleeding.
- Practice good oral hygiene- Bleeding gums may be a sign of poor dental hygiene. Gums become inflamed and bleed when there is a buildup of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film containing bacteria that covers your teeth. To improve oral hygiene, brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss once a day.
- Rinse with hydrogen peroxide- You might use hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant. It can also remove plaque, promote gum health, and stop gum bleeding.
- Stop smoking- In addition to heightening the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke, smoking is linked to gum disease. In fact, smoking is a major cause of severe gum disease in the United States, says the Centers for Disease Control. Smoking can lower your body’s immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off plaque bacteria. This can lead to gum disease.
- Reduce stress level- One study suggests a link between periodontal disease and emotional stress. According to the research, emotional stress has a negative impact on your immune system. This may result in weakening of your body’s defenses to the point where it cannot fight a gum infection.
- Increase your vitamin C- Vitamin C can strengthen your immune system and help fight off the gum infections that cause bleeding gums. Conversely, not getting enough vitamin C in can worsen bleeding if you have gum disease
- Increase your vitamin K- A vitamin K supplement can alleviate bleeding gums. Vitamin K is an important nutrient because it helps your blood clot.
- Apply a cold compress- Bleeding gums are not always caused by gum disease. Your gums may bleed from trauma or an injury. A cold compress can reduce swelling and restrict blood flow to stop bleeding.
- Eat fewer carbs- Reducing your carbohydrate intake can also improve gum health and prevent gum disease. Carbohydrates and sugary foods encourage plaque and bacteria.
- Rinse with salt water- Bacteria in your mouth causes gum disease. Rinsing with a mixture of warm salt water may also reduce bacteria and stop gum bleeding.