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Many people may experience bleeding gums at some point in their lives, be it due to brushing a little bit too hard or a small injury in their gum tissue that they overlooked before. However, if bleeding gums persist, they can indicate underlying health problems that call for a visit to an advanced dentist in Iowa.  

Persistent gum bleeding can be caused by gum disease, a dangerous condition that can cause gum recession, dental sensitivity, and, eventually, tooth loss. To prevent this, understanding the reasons behind your gum bleeding and how to address it is fundamental.

5 Causes for Gum Bleeding and How to Put a Stop to It  

1. Gingivitis (Gum Disease)  

Gum bleeding is most frequently caused by gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease brought on by plaque buildup. The accumulation of bacteria on teeth can irritate the gums, resulting in bleeding, swelling, and redness when brushing or flossing.  

• How to solve it: Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, and professional treatment with a dentist can help reverse gingivitis.  

2. Poor Oral Hygiene  

When people neglect oral hygiene, plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth can irritate and bleed gums. Brushing their teeth too aggressively or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can also lead to bleeding gums.  

• How to solve it: Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings are crucial steps in preventing gum problems and bleeding. Moreover, we recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and moving it over your teeth in gentle, circular movements.  

3. Vitamin Deficiencies  

Certain vitamin deficiencies may cause gum bleeding. For instance, tissue repair and healthy gums depend on vitamin C. Moreover, vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy. This disorder causes bleeding, swollen gums, and other problems with oral health.  

Vitamin K, which is involved in blood clotting, is also important for gum health, and a deficiency can lead to increased bleeding.  

• How to solve it: Ensuring a balanced diet of essential vitamins can help maintain healthy gums and prevent bleeding.  

4. Hormonal Changes  

Gum health may be affected by hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause. Pregnancy gingivitis is a condition that causes swollen, tender, and bleeding gums in pregnant women due to elevated hormone levels.  

Hormonal changes can also increase gum sensitivity during menstruation or menopause, which raises the risk of bleeding.  

• How to solve it: Maintaining proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are especially important during these times to prevent gum bleeding.  

5. Medications  

Certain medications can also make human bleeding more likely. Anticoagulants and aspirin, for example, are blood thinners that can disrupt blood coagulation and increase the risk of gum bleeding.  

Gum bleeding may also be a side effect of other medications, such as those used to treat epilepsy (phenytoin) or hypertension (calcium channel blockers).  

• How to solve it: If you take any of these medications and notice gum bleeding, consult your doctor or dentist to discuss potential adjustments.  

Find an Advanced Dentist in Iowa to Stop Your Bleeding Gums  

Your bleeding gums could be caused by several things, from hormonal imbalances to poor oral hygiene. Whatever the case, this condition should never be ignored, as it can be a sign of a serious underlying issue.  

If you experience persistent bleeding gums, it is important to consult a dentist at Wheelock & Associates Dentistry for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. With proper care, most causes of bleeding gums can be managed, so reach out!