The Dilemma of Bleeding Gums: Why They Bleed – Part One

Most Common Causes of Gum Bleeding

Here are the most common causes of bleeding gums. 

Having gingivitis, a disease that causes inflammation of the gums is one of the main causes of bleeding gums. With gingivitis, gums are irritated, red, and swollen, and may bleed when you brush your teeth. The practice of good oral hygiene – brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash can relieve gingivitis and bleeding. 

Brushing Too Hard

Brushing too hard or using hard-bristle toothbrushes can irritate and wound the tender tissue of the gums, causing them to bleed. Likewise, when you’re new at flossing and not yet used to the routine, you may accidentally cut your gums causing them to bleed. In time, as you learn, bleeding can lessen.

Certain Medications

Taking certain medications, like blood thinners, can cause gums to bleed. Those taking blood thinners such as warfarin, aspirin, and heparin might experience bleeding gums as a side effect.

These medications make blood flow smoothly through veins and arteries; they also keep blood from clotting because clots can cause blockage passing through narrower blood vessels. Blood thinners are beneficial for those who have an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Source