Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? Have your gums become sensitive and swollen? If yes, then you might be having gum disease. But you’re not alone! The World Health Organization estimates that over 19% of the global population suffers from gum disease. Unfortunately, gum disease not only indicates poor oral health but can cause various medical complications. Therefore, it is important to understand the reason behind teeth bleeding when cleaning them. 

In this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about gum disease, its management, and prevention. So, read on to learn more. 

Are Bleeding Gums Normal?

If your gums bleed when you brush them, it is a sign that there is something wrong with your oral health. That is why you shouldn’t consider this condition lightly. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, bleeding from the gums is an early sign of gum disease. Therefore, if you or a loved one has bleeding from gums whenever they brush or floss, they should visit their dentist right away. 

What Is The Reason For Gum Bleeding?

According to Healthline, gum bleeding can occur due to various reasons. The foremost reason is underlying gum disease caused by plaque and tartar deposition on the teeth. Another reason for gum bleeding could be the use of excessive force when you brush your teeth. This could result in physical injury to the gums causing bleeding. Vitamin C deficiency is another cause of gum disease, which can cause a condition called scurvy. 

Why Am I Experiencing Bleeding Gums Without Brushing?

Bleeding from gums doesn’t always occur while brushing or eating. It can also occur even when they are not stimulated. For example, gum bleeding can occur continuously in advanced gum disease. Moreover, constant bleeding from the gums is also common in people suffering from scurvy. According to the NHS, scurvy is caused by Vitamin C deficiency, and one of its common signs is gum bleeding, swelling, and tenderness. 

What Causes My Gums To Bleed At Night?

If your gums only bleed during the night, it could be due to a condition called bruxism. This condition is characterised by excessive teeth grinding during the night or daytime. When one grinds their gums during sleep, it exerts pressure on the teeth and gums. As a result, the biting surfaces of the teeth begin to flatten while the gums start to bleed. In later stages, excessive pressure on the gums can result in chronic gum disease and complications such as tooth loss. 

Is Your Gum Disease Over If The Bleeding Stops?

If your gums stop bleeding, does it mean you no longer have gum disease? Not always. If your dentist has performed professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar deposits, then you may observe cessation in gum bleeding. This is because teeth cleaning will help neutralise the harmful bacteria that cause gum bleeding. On the other hand, if you haven’t sought any treatment for your bleeding gums and they have suddenly stopped bleeding, it isn’t a sign that your gum disease is over. So, gum bleeding should stop after periodontal treatment. However, if it stops without treatment, it means that the disease is still there and you shouldn’t take this condition lightly. 

When Should I See A Dentist For Bleeding Gums?

Bleeding from your gums is a sign of poor oral hygiene. The first thing to do in this case is to maintain a strict oral hygiene routine. You should brush your teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once. Moreover, you may consider using a mouthwash for added dental cleaning. However, if these measures don’t stop the bleeding, this means that there is a need for dental treatment and you should visit your dentist right away. 

Is Dental Cleaning Good Or Bad?

Dental cleaning is a procedure in which your dentist removes the plaque and tartar deposits on your teeth. They will use an ultrasonic scaler whose tip vibrates at a very high frequency to remove tartar from your teeth. While there is no harm in getting one’s teeth professionally cleaned once or twice a year, it should be done frequently. Moreover, teeth cleaning should not be considered an alternative to regular oral hygiene measures such as brushing and flossing. 

Why Does Teeth Cleaning Have To Be Done Twice A Year?

Everyone doesn’t need to have one’s teeth professionally cleaned twice a year. Instead, teeth cleaning once or twice a year is recommended for only those people who are at a high risk of developing gum disease. If you have healthy gums that don’t bleed, you don’t need frequent professional teeth cleaning. 

How To Stop My Gums From Bleeding?

The best way to stop your gums from bleeding is to maintain optimal oral hygiene. You can do this by brushing your teeth at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush. You should also use a floss for internal cleaning at least once a day. Moreover, you can ask your dentist to prescribe you a mouthwash which will help in neutralising the disease-causing bacteria and accelerate the healing process. Finally, you should eat a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients. A healthy diet boosts immunity and helps with healing. 

If you are looking for the best dental practice in Rotherham for teeth cleaning, there is no better option than Precision Dental Care. We have the best dentists in town to look after your entire family’s dental health. Join our patient family and take your first step towards a healthy and lasting smile