How To Stop Bleeding Gums

You may think it is normal if your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, but bleeding from the gums indicates an underlying problem. Many factors can contribute to bleeding gums, such as brushing too vigorously, injury, pregnancy, and inflammation. Gum inflammation can cause redness, tenderness, and swelling, and it can be a sign of periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. These diseases can occur from inadequate plaque removal.

The best way to determine the most appropriate treatment for bleeding gums is to first identify the cause. Once you know this, you can choose from among many possible ways to stop the bleeding.

1. Brush twice daily for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste

Bleeding gums may be a sign of poor dental hygiene.

Gums become inflamed and bleed when there’s a buildup of plaque along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film containing bacteria that covers your teeth and gums. And if you don’t brush or floss enough, the bacteria can spread and cause tooth decay or gum disease.

2. Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide

You might keep hydrogen peroxide on hand to use as a disinfectant. Turns out it can also remove plaque, promote gum health, and stop gum bleeding. If your gums are bleeding, rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide after brushing, but don’t swallow the solution.

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, and this condition can cause bleeding, swelling, and receding gums. Hydrogen peroxide can be an effective way to reduce gum inflammation that causes gingivitis and whiten teeth.

3. Use interdental brushes or floss

Using interdental brushes or flossing is another key component of a good oral health routine. This is because a toothbrush cannot get in between our teeth like interdental brushes or floss can. It’s important to get into these areas which a toothbrush cannot reach, otherwise pockets of plaque may build up, potentially causing problems for our gums.

4. Stop smoking

In addition to heightening the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke, smoking is linked to gum disease. 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. Quitting smoking can help your gums heal and stop bleeding.

5. Visit the dentist

The dental practice is the best port of call for any oral health issues we are having, including bleeding gums, whether this is for a routine check-up or for a dental emergency.

Book an emergency consult here: www.toothfairyapp.co.uk/emergency-dentist/

Last updated on February 20, 2024

Dr. Deepak Aulak

Dr. Deepak Aulak is a London-based dental practitioner with a special interest in cosmetic dentistry. Having graduated from King's College London in Dentistry, Dr. Aulak was decorated with over a dozen awards and scholarships along the way, which notably include the Jelf Medal, Malleson Prize for research and GKT Hospital's Full Shields.

Share

Related Posts