Learn More About
Bleeding Gums

Do your gums bleed whenever you brush your teeth? Bleeding gums can be a sign of poor dental hygiene or a more serious underlying health condition. It is also the most common symptom of gum disease.

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You Don't Have to Live with Bleeding Gums Anymore.

Bleeding gums are a sign that your oral health is in danger. When the gums are unhealthy, they pull away from the teeth and form spaces called pockets. Bacteria can accumulate in these pockets and lead to inflammation and bleeding.

Without treatment, gum inflammation can lead to gum disease, which can damage the soft tissues and bones that support the teeth. In severe cases, it can lead to tooth mobility or even tooth loss.

It’s important to know the cause of your bleeding gums to get the necessary treatment. The good news is that AP Dental can help! We offer comprehensive dental services that can help diagnose and address the cause of your gum bleeding. We offer various services to help improve the health of your gums, including dental cleanings, periodontal therapy, and more.

Common Causes of Bleeding Gums

  • Bleeding gums are often caused by brushing your teeth too vigorously. It can damage the delicate tissues in your gums, causing them to bleed.

  • Ill-fitting oral appliances can also cause bleeding gums. If your dental appliance is too tight or loose, it can rub or irritate your gums, causing them to bleed.

  • Another common cause of bleeding gums is gum disease. This condition is caused by the build-up of plaque and tartar on your teeth. Without management, gum disease can damage the tissues in your gums and lead to bleeding.

  • Leukaemia is another possible cause of bleeding gums. This cancer of the blood cells can cause abnormal bleeding from the gums.

  • Vitamin C and K deficiency can also lead to bleeding gums. These vitamins are essential for healthy blood clotting. If you don’t have enough of these vitamins in your diet, you may experience abnormal bleeding from the gums.

  • Pregnancy can also cause bleeding gums. The changes in hormones during pregnancy can make the gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding.

Dental Services that Can Address Bleeding Gums 

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Scale and Clean

If you're noticing that your gums are bleeding more easily than usual, it's likely due to a build-up of plaque bacteria. A scale and clean, also known as a professional clean, removes plaque and tartar that cannot be removed by brushing at home.

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Gum Disease Treatment

Bleeding gums are the most common symptom of gum disease. Gum disease treatments, such as deep cleaning and antibiotic therapy, can help gradually reduce bleeding gums and promote healthy gum tissue.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums commonly signify poor dental hygiene, gum disease, or vitamin deficiencies. If you notice your gums bleeding, you must see a dentist or doctor to rule out any serious conditions. Please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at AP Dental so we can help you determine the cause of your bleeding gums and recommend the appropriate treatment.

There are a few things you can do at home to address bleeding gums:

  • Practice good oral hygiene.
    This means brushing your teeth at least two times daily, flossing regularly, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.

  • Use clean, damp gauze to help control the bleeding.

  • If your gums are sore, you can apply an ice pack to help soothe them.

  • Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce swelling.

  • When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further irritation.

  • If you smoke, it’s important to quit. Smoking can exacerbate gum inflammation and contribute to other oral health problems.

  • Turmeric is a good option if you’re looking for a natural way to soothe your gums. This spice has been shown to have natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

  • Increase your intake of vitamins C and K. These vitamins play an important role in wound healing, so including them in your diet can help your gums recover more quickly from any damage.

  • Visiting your dentist every six months will help reduce bleeding gums by keeping up with your routine scaling and cleaning to maintain a healthy mouth.
When it comes to bleeding gums, the average healing time is between 7 and 10 days. However, it really depends on what’s causing your gums to bleed in the first place. If it’s due to something like brushing too hard, then your gums should start to feel better within a few days of making changes to your oral care routine. However, if your gums are bleeding because of something more serious, like gum disease, it might take longer for them to heal, depending on how your dentist will approach the management of your gum disease.
A little bleeding is not uncommon when you brush or floss if you have inflammation from gingivitis. But other causes of bleeding gums include pregnancy, leukaemia, and blood-thinning medications. If your gums have been bleeding for more than a week, it’s time to see a dentist. In most cases, bleeding gums can be caused by plaque and tartar build-up. A deep dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar and promote gum healing.

Get a Smile that Stands Out

At AP Dental, we are proud to offer a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of our patients. From professional cleanings and dental fillings to more complex procedures, we are here to help you maintain a brighter, healthier smile. Book your appointment today and see the difference our team can make.