Bleeding from your teeth or gums is common. This guide offers actionable advice on immediate steps and underlying reasons to help you manage and prevent gum bleeding effectively.
Immediate Bleeding Control Techniques
When you notice bleeding from your gums or around a tooth, apply direct pressure to promote clotting. You can use a clean piece of gauze, a cotton ball, or even a damp tea bag. Tea bags contain tannic acid, which can help constrict blood vessels and promote clotting. Gently but firmly press the material against the bleeding area for at least 10 to 15 minutes without frequently checking, as this can disrupt the clot formation.
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area can also help reduce swelling and slow down bleeding. An ice pack or a cold compress should be applied for 10-minute intervals, with 10-minute breaks in between. After controlling the bleeding, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water; this can help clean the area and reduce bacteria, but avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, which might dislodge any forming clot. Keeping your head elevated, especially if lying down, can also decrease blood flow to the injured site.
Common Reasons for Bleeding
Bleeding gums are frequently a sign of gum inflammation, known as gingivitis, which results from plaque buildup along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that, if not removed through regular brushing and flossing, can harden into tartar, irritating the gums. This inflammation makes the gums appear red, swollen, and tender.
Sometimes, bleeding can be a result of overly aggressive brushing or incorrect flossing techniques. Using a toothbrush with hard bristles or applying too much force can injure the delicate gum tissue, leading to bleeding. Similarly, if you are new to flossing, your gums might bleed initially as they adjust to the routine. Trauma, such as biting down on something hard or an impact, can also cause bleeding from the gums or around a tooth.
Certain medications can increase the likelihood of gum bleeding, particularly blood thinners like warfarin, rivaroxaban, or aspirin, which reduce the blood’s clotting ability. Some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain blood pressure medications can also have this effect. Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding due to increased blood flow to the gum tissues.
When Professional Dental Care is Necessary
While home remedies help with minor bleeding, professional dental attention is sometimes necessary. If bleeding is persistent, heavy, or does not stop after applying pressure for an extended period, it warrants immediate evaluation. Bleeding accompanied by significant pain, noticeable swelling, or a fever could indicate a more serious underlying issue like an infection.
Seek dental care if bleeding occurs after a significant injury, especially if teeth are loose or visibly damaged. Concerns about medication side effects causing gum bleeding should prompt a discussion with your dentist and prescribing doctor. A dentist can diagnose the cause of bleeding and recommend appropriate treatment, from deep cleaning for gum disease to other interventions.
Maintaining Oral Health to Prevent Bleeding
Consistent oral hygiene prevents gum bleeding. Brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Employ a gentle technique, holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gumline and using short, circular strokes to effectively remove plaque without irritating the gums.
Daily flossing is equally important, removing plaque and food particles from between teeth and beneath the gumline where a toothbrush cannot reach. When flossing, gently slide the floss between teeth and curve it around the base of each tooth, moving it up and down. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important for removing hardened tartar that brushing alone cannot, helping maintain gum health.
A balanced diet and hydration support overall oral health. Limiting sugary foods and drinks can reduce plaque buildup, while consuming fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C and K can strengthen gum tissues. Avoiding tobacco is also beneficial, as smoking increases the risk of gum disease and hinders healing.