Why Do Your Gums Bleed? Here’s What You Need To Know

Do your gums bleed when you brush your teeth or eat certain foods? Bleeding gums can be caused by something as simple as food stuck between teeth. However, it can also be a sign of a more severe problem that needs dental attention.

Problems That Can Cause Bleeding Gums

It is not uncommon to experience bleeding gums from time to time. However, if you notice your gums are bleeding every time you brush your teeth, there may be an issue with your oral health:

Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common causes of bleeding gums is poor oral hygiene. If you are not brushing and flossing regularly and properly, you could be putting your gum health at risk. Make sure to brush for a minimum of two minutes twice a day. It is also important that you floss daily. When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing too hard or with vigorous strokes.

Gum Disease
More than half of American adults are affected by gum disease. While this condition often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms, one of the most common signs is bleeding gums. If you are unfamiliar, gum disease is a condition that develops when there is an infection in the gums.

Medications
We don’t usually associate medication side effects with dental problems, so you may be surprised to learn that many medications can cause bleeding gums. This is one of the reasons we regularly ask about any changes to your medical health or medications.

If you experience bleeding gums, there is no need to worry, but it is important to visit us soon. If you are in Charlotte, NC, or the surrounding area, we recommend calling our office to schedule an appointment. We also encourage you to come in if it has been longer than six months since your last oral hygiene examination and cleaning. We can examine your gums, identify any issues, and recommend a treatment plan. We look forward to helping get your oral health back on track.

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