Why do my gums bleed?

What are bleeding gums?

This may seem like a very straightforward question, but bleeding gums can mean much more than the obvious. Bleeding gums can be a precursor to serious conditions like gingivitis and periodontal disease. If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you could be on the way towards some very severe situations that have been proven to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, and more. If your gums are swollen, or bleed, then your entire circulatory system is open to the attack of every form of bacteria that is present in your mouth. Symptoms such as swollen or bleeding gums are warning signs that our bodies give us so that we can take action to prevent the underlying cause from progressing beyond control.

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Signs of bleeding gums

Bleeding gums can be a result of gum disease as previously mentioned, but it can also be a symptom accompanying canker sores or mouth ulcers which have their own causes aside from gum disease. If bleeding occurs due to a sore in the mouth you will likely notice that the gums are sore, and these can come as single sores or in multiples. Signs that may indicate gum disease or gingivitis may include the following:

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• Sore gums
• Swollen gums
• Changes in the way teeth fit together
• Formation of deep pockets between the teeth and gums
• Gums that bleed during and after brushing teeth
• Loose, or shifting teeth
• Receding gums

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Dangers of bleeding gums

There is much more to consider than just the pain or discomfort associated with the bleeding itself. It can often lead to gum disease. If there is a passageway for blood to exit your tissue, it makes sense that there would be a way for other things to enter the bloodstream. If this is the case, harmful bacteria that are formed in the mouth can gain access to your bloodstream and potentially cause a whole host of health problems. Some of the dangers that can eventually take place are:

• Digestive system disorders
• Respiratory problems
• Higher risk for heart attack or stroke
• Diabetes
• Pancreatic cancer

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The Major Cause of Bleeding Gums – Harmful Bacteria

Bacteria in the mouth can easily grow out of control, especially when proper oral hygiene is not being practiced, or the wrong oral care products are being used. When this happens, the bacteria form plaque, and eventually tartar. This will cause inflammation of the gums, along with swelling and bleeding. Bleeding can also occur as a result of improper flossing. Be careful to allow the floss to slide along the natural curves of the teeth, and do not force it.

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Even when brushing and flossing regularly, you may be using products that are causing more harm than good. Commercial toothpastes and mouthwash are filled with potentially harmful ingredients.

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How to Prevent Bleeding Gums – Fight Harmful Bacteria in 4 Easy Steps

The single best way to prevent bleeding gums is to practice a daily oral hygiene program, with a good bacteria-fighting oral product.

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The 4 Step Oral Hygiene Program

	Brush twice daily (morning and evening)
	Floss thoroughly, each evening before brushing, or more frequently as needed.
	Rinse with a mouthwash twice daily (morning and evening). . This kills the bacteria in the entire mouth, including the back of the tongue.
	Mid-morning, mid-afternoon and as needed: put 2-5 drops of a breath freshener on the tip of the tongue to coat the gum line and teeth to kill bacteria and keep breath fresh.

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Treating Bleeding Gums

We’ve previously discussed how bleeding gums can be related to gum disease, or other natural functions of the body. Here are a few ways to help treat, or control it if you’re suffering:

• Establish a good oral hygiene program
• Eat a well balanced diet
• Drink plenty of water
• Do not use tobacco products
• Be cautious about extremely hot or cold foods and beverages
• Relax

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