The first time you see your gum bleeding, it is understandable if you are concerned. However, in many cases, bleeding gums are nothing to be worried about. Here are some reasons your gums may be bleeding.
Brushing Too Hard or Too Hard a Toothbrush
Many people think that in order to get your teeth and gums really clean, you need to use a hard toothbrush or brush hard to make sure you rid your teeth of plaque and food particles. However, brushing too hard or using a toothbrush that has hard bristles can not only cause your gums to bleed but can remove the protective enamel from your teeth.
Injury
People who play contact sports or who have suffered trauma to their mouths from an accident or other injury may notice their gums are bleeding. You may want to apply an ice pack to your face to stop the bleeding gums and also reduce swelling. If you notice a lot of blood in your mouth, it is time to call our dentist and let them check your mouth for problems.
Mouth Sores
Canker sores or other mouth sores can cause gums to bleed. If you are suffering from mouth ulcers, you may want to try saltwater rinses to help them heal. However, if you continue to suffer from mouth sores that bleed, you need to let our dentist know because there may be something else causing your gums to bleed.
Gum Disease
The most common cause of bleeding gums is not trauma or hard brushing. Instead, bleeding gums are one of the first signs of gum disease. Gum disease, if you do not get it treated, can damage your gums, teeth, and overall health. If you have recently noticed your gums bleeding, especially immediately after you brush your teeth, you may have the beginning stages of gum disease. Luckily, if you have the beginning stages of gum disease, also called gingivitis, our dentist can treat it easily.
Not sure what is causing your gums to bleed? Let us help you by making an appointment.