"Why do my gums bleed when I brush?" is a common question that our periodontists, Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller, are asked at Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO.
Bleeding gums can be extremely discomforting physically and mentally. It is important that a person understands that gums that bleed signify a problem that needs to be addressed to both stop the gums from bleeding and to heal your gums.Gum disease: This is the most common cause for bleeding gums. The initial stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis in which gums become swollen and tender. These bleed upon touch especially during actions such as brushing or eating. Gum disease also known as Periodontal Disease occurs due to accumulation of plaque which irritates the gums. If gum disease is not treated initially, it progresses to Periodontitis and finally tooth loss. For more information and frequently asked questions about gum disease, treatment and more including Seven Danger Signs, an initial self-evaluation and a visual guide, visit our website at www.periodontalhealth.com.
Vigorous brushing: Brushing with toothpaste is abrasive in nature. Overzealous brushing does more harm than good to the teeth. In rare cases, overzealous brushing can also cause the gums to bleed but getting healthy gums to bleed by vigorous brushing is rare.
Smoking or chewing tobacco: In addition to the irritating effect of tobacco the gums, smokers tend to have more tartar on their teeth than non-smokers which causes gum disease.
Hormones: Hormone receptors are embedded in gum tissue. If certain hormone levels rise above their normal level, they can cause an increase of fluid level in the gum tissue. This change results in gum becoming red, tender and swollen. When hormone levels become normal, so do your gums.
Vitamin K deficiency: Vitamin K is an important factor in the process of blood clotting. A deficiency in Vitamin K can cause gums to bleed.
Drugs: Some drugs such as oral contraceptives, antidepressants, nasal sprays and anticoagulants may have the tendency to cause bleeding gums.
Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune disorders are disorders in which a body’s own immune system damages its own cells. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) are a few autoimmune disorders which can cause bleeding gums.
Leukemia: Leukemia is a cancer of the blood or bone marrow. One of its characteristic symptoms is bleeding gums.
It is often found that a patient with gums that bleed suffers from some degree of gum disease. If you are experiencing bleeding gums, call Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller at Periodontal Associates for an appointment to check your overall gum health and to determine the appropriate course of action.
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