Why Are My Gums Receding and Bleeding?

It's not abnormal for people to see a bit of blood when brushing and flossing, and many people disregard this situation. However, it can be a sign of a serious underlying issue.

Tender, red, or swollen gums can indicate the presence of periodontal disease, such as periodontitis or gingivitis. Identifying the cause of bleeding gums is crucial to get the right treatment.

Are you wondering, " Why does my gum bleed when I brush my teeth, and why have my gums receded?” Let's explore the answer below.

Bacteria Plaque Buildup

One of the most common reasons behind bleeding gums is gingivitis. This is inflammation of the gums that can stem from many causes. More often than not, it's the result of unregulated bacteria plaque buildup.

Although regular brushing can help minimize plaque buildup, it's essential to schedule regular dental cleanings. This is the only way to keep your gums as healthy as possible.

Periodontitis

Also known as gum disease, this is a serious dental condition that causes damage to the tissue around the teeth. Without treatment, it can eventually lead to loose teeth or even tooth loss.

One of the primary symptoms is bleeding gums. Others include swollen or puffy gums, painful chewing, and gum tenderness. Although periodontitis can cause many complications, it's easily preventable by regular checkups, flossing, and brushing.

Vitamin C Deficiency

Low vitamin C levels are associated with increased gum bleeding. In this scenario, bleeding can even occur from gentle probing.

Oranges, kiwis, kale, and peppers are great sources of vitamin C. You can also take supplements if you find it difficult to consume enough each day through food.

Brushing

Bleeding gums aren't always the result of an underlying medical issue. In some cases, you may simply be brushing too hard.

Brush your teeth gently but with enough force to remove food particles. You should also brush your teeth twice per day for approximately 3-5 minutes each session. If you brush your teeth too hard, that may cause teeth enamel to be lost. Try not to brush your teeth one hour after the meal; the acidic or alkaline substance will weaken your enamel. When you want to have acidic drinks, it’s better to use straws to reduce acidic reactions to weaken your enamel. Try to brush the upper 2/3 of your teeth, and using dental floss, wrap your tooth as a C-shape to remove the gum line area dental plaque.

Other Reasons

Certain illnesses can make it easier for your gums to bleed during brushing. Some of the most common include hemophilia, diabetes, and oral herpes.

If you're on blood thinners, you may also notice that you bleed more frequently while brushing your gums. Addressing underlying medical conditions can help this situation.

Contact Northland Village Dental Centre in NW Calgary

Sometimes, the wrong brushing method may cause gum recession, but you should take action as soon as possible if you notice something wrong with your gum. This will help prevent the issue from evolving into something more complicated. Northland Village Dental Centre in NW Calgary provides hygiene and oral care services in Calgary.

Schedule an appointment today. Our professional staff is ready to connect you with the best treatment.