How to Get My Gums to Stop Bleeding
While some may shrug it off as normal, bleeding gums should not be ignored as it signifies an underlying problem. Bleeding gums can be caused by several factors including overaggressive brushing, pregnancy, injury, or inflammation. Gum swelling, tenderness, and redness can also be signs of periodontal diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis.
Determining the cause of gum bleeding is vital in selecting treatment. Once the cause is identified, the following are some possible methods for stopping the bleeding.
Improve the Oral Hygiene Routine
Bleeding gums are often a sign that the oral hygiene routine is lacking. When plaque builds up along the gumline, the gum tissue becomes inflamed and may bleed. If not adequately removed with thorough flossing and brushing, the bacteria spreads and can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. As such, it is important to floss at least once daily and brush two times per day.
Rinse with Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can be useful for removing plaque, promoting periodontal health, and stopping bleeding gums. If the gums bleed following flossing or brushing, rinsing the mouth with a hydrogen peroxide solution can be helpful.
Quit Smoking
Beyond raising the risk of heard disease, lung cancer, and stroke, smoking also contributes to periodontal disease. Because it inhibits the body’s immune system, smoking makes it more difficult for the body to combat plaque bacteria which can lead to periodontal disease. Stopping smoking can help stop bleeding and allow the gums to heal.
Reduce Stress
There is some scientific evidence suggesting a link between emotional stress and periodontal disease. According to the research, stress negatively impacts the immune system which could compromise the ability to combat gum disease. Additional research is needed to determine the level of stress necessary to trigger the onset of disease.
Increase Vitamin C Intake
Consuming foods that are rich in Vitamin C can provide immune system boosts needed to fight off periodontal diseases causing gum bleeding. On the other hand, not getting adequate Vitamin C can cause gum bleeding regardless of how good the oral hygiene practices are. Some foods that are Vitamin C rich include carrots, oranges, red peppers, and sweet potatoes.
Increase Vitamin K Intake
Vitamin K is important because it helps with blood clotting. A deficiency in Vitamin K can lead to easy bleeding and could be the root cause of bleeding gums. Some foods that are high in Vitamin K include kale, spinach, collard greens, and mustard greens.
Apply Cold Compress
Applying a cold towel or ice pack can be helpful in reducing swelling and restricting blood flow around the area bleeding. This can be done several times throughout the day for 20 minute at a time. This is especially helpful in instances where the gum bleeding was caused by trauma or injury.
Consume Fewer Carbs
Because carbohydrates and sugars promote plaque and bacteria growth, they can lead to periodontal disease and bleeding. As such, it may be helpful to reduce carbs in the diet while maintaining a thorough cleaning routine to remove any daily buildup.