Noticing your gums have begun to bleed when you brush your teeth or at other times may be a temporary problem or could indicate something more serious, such as gum disease in Newcastle. If your gums begin to bleed unexpectedly, it’s always best to make an appointment with our West Bowmaville Family Dental dentist. We can gently examine your gums, identify why they are bleeding, and provide suitable treatment if needed.

Common Reasons for Bleeding Gums

There are many reasons why gums can begin to bleed but the most common include:

• Brushing your teeth too hard
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Hormonal changes
• Medications or health conditions
• Poorly fitting dental appliances
• Gum disease

Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard

You must brush your teeth at least twice daily to keep them clean and free from disease, but scrubbing them too hard can cause your gums to bleed. Also, using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause the same problem. You don’t need to brush your teeth hard, and a soft or medium bristled toothbrush using small circular motions and light pressure is best. Please ask us for help and advice during your next visit if you are unsure.

Vitamin Deficiencies

If you don’t have enough vitamin K and vitamin C, it can increase the risk of gums bleeding. Good sources of vitamin C include broccoli, citrus fruits, strawberries and tomatoes, while leafy greens are a great source of vitamin K. If we cannot find an oral health problem causing bleeding gums in Clarington, we may suggest you visit your GP, in case you have a vitamin deficiency.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes can increase the sensitivity of your gums to bacteria found in dental plaque, making them more likely to bleed. These hormonal changes can occur during puberty, pregnancy and menopause.

Medications or Health Conditions

Some medications, especially blood thinners, can make your gums more likely to bleed. Otherwise, certain health conditions like infections, leukemia and hemophilia can also increase the risk of gums bleeding in Courtice.

Poorly Fitting Dental Appliances

Poorly fitting braces, dentures, or other dental appliances can irritate your gums, eventually causing them to bleed, especially if you have sensitive gums. If you have noticed a dental appliance is fitting less comfortably, please get in touch with us. Our dentist can assess the fit of the appliance and make any necessary adjustments to stop it from rubbing on your gums uncomfortably.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is one of the most common reasons for bleeding gums, and the early stage is called gingivitis. At this point, your gums may only bleed occasionally, but they can look more swollen and red. Ideally, if you notice your gums are bleeding, book an appointment for a checkup immediately. We can assess the condition of your gums and quickly identify any early signs of gum disease.

Gingivitis is often very easily treated by cleaning your teeth professionally. A professional dental cleaning gets rid of plaque and tartar buildup. Dental plaque and tartar contain harmful bacteria that infect and inflame your gums, so removing this buildup gives your gums a chance to heal. We will also want to review your oral care routine, discussing how to make some improvements, so you remove plaque buildup more effectively, perhaps by using different dental tools or techniques to brush and floss more thoroughly.

Advanced gum disease or periodontitis is very different and is far more difficult to treat and can cause tooth loss or even affect your overall health. It is why we thoroughly recommend regular checkups and professional dental cleanings to help prevent this condition from developing.