Is It Normal for My Gums to Bleed?

Bleeding gums can be worrying and uncomfortable, leaving many to question whether it’s ok to be happening in the first place. It’s important that patients understand why gum tissue can do this if they want to maintain good oral health and prevent potential complications. By delving into the causes of bleeding gums, our Orange Park dentist can help you take the necessary steps to protect your smile and overall well-being.

Here’s what you need to know about 4 factors that can contribute to gum irritation.

Possible Reasons for Bleeding Gums Include:

1. Early or Advanced Gum Disease

It’s common to experience bleeding gums when the earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, has begun to set in. That’s because of the harmful plaque that’s built up above and below the gum line. When plaque isn’t cleared away, bacteria grows and attacks the gum tissue, increasing its sensitivity and inflammation.

Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible with regular toothbrushing, flossing, and teeth cleanings every 6 months. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is long-term, irreversible, and what gingivitis can turn into if left untreated.

In addition to cleanings, Dr. Marino can alleviate your bleeding gums and advanced periodontal disease with procedures like scaling and root planing, gingival therapy, andgingival irrigation. Gum disease treatments of this nature are designed to deep clean and manage the chronic condition.

2. Rough Tooth Brushing 

When brushing your teeth, try not to brush too hard or fast. Setting out to clean teeth in record time will not accomplish what you think it will. Instead, you’ll put yourself at risk for gum recession and bleeding.

Helpful tip: Slow down, take your time, brush gently in a circular motion, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Don’t forget to also brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss them daily. It’s not critical that you brush after every meal or snack. What is beneficial is cleaning your teeth when you get up in the morning and before you go to bed. That way you’re clearing off plaque that’s accumulated as you sleep as well as throughout the day.

3. Dentures That Don’t Fit the Best

Conventional dentures have a tendency to slip or shift occasionally which while annoying, isn’t abnormal. However, when your dentures don’t fit well at all, you may notice some unwanted irritation and bleeding.

Oftentimes, bleeding gums occur when dentures are fitted too tightly or still in place while sleeping as this can cause tissue inflammation. If you’re tired of dealing with standard dentures and their fit problems, ask Dr. Marino about the possibility of dental implants or even implant-supported dentures. Implants are posts made of titanium that act as artificial tooth roots to look and function like real teeth.

4. Hormone Changes or Medical Conditions

For some women, pregnancy can mean that gums become swollen and bleed. This is due to changes in hormones that affect how the body responds to the bacteria that causes gum disease. Try taking extra care of your teeth during this time with a fluoride toothpaste and floss.

Other health conditions like blood clotting disorders or leukemia can also translate into bleeding gums. The best thing you can do if you have one of these conditions is to maintain a strict oral hygiene routine, receive professional cleanings, and converse with your general doctor.

Start Caring for Your Gums

It’s never a bad idea to keep tabs on your oral health. How else would you know if something was wrong? Of course, our dentist serving Orange Park and Greater Jacksonville, FL, is also here if you need a professional opinion. Call Marino Family Dentistry today at (904) 269-2185 to request an appointment.