Everything You Need To Know About Preventing Bleeding Gums

As a private dental practice, we assist patients who have a variety of dental problems – and they’re not always related to their teeth!

Gum bleeding is a common problem that affects many people, but it’s one that must be taken seriously as there are many causes, including poor oral hygiene, ill-fitting dentures, or gum disease. Understanding the causes, prevention, and treatment of bleeding gums can help you to take better care of your oral health.

What Are The Causes Of Gum Bleeding?

Many dental patients wonder whether bleeding gums are normal. If persistent or bad gum bleeding is affecting you, it’s natural to be concerned, but most causes are not serious and can be easily rectified:

Poor dental hygiene: Infrequent or ineffective brushing and flossing encourages the build-up of bacteria and plaque on the gumline, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed.
Inappropriate brushing technique: Many patients brush their teeth vigorously but forget to clean the gumline, the edge of the gums where they meet the teeth. This can lead to the gums becoming sensitive and prone to bleeding.
Overbrushing: A common misconception is that teeth are best cleaned by applying maximum force with a toothbrush. However, a gentler approach that focuses on circular motions over the surface of the teeth and a 45° angle along the gumline is just as effective.
Badly-fitting dentures: Dentures are manufactured to provide a comfortable fit over the gums but, in time, may lose their shape. Sore and bleeding gums may result.
Gum disease: An infection of the gums can also cause bleeding and may be accompanied by bad breath, loose teeth, and a foul taste.

Other factors can also cause bleeding gums, including hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause, and medications, such as blood thinners.

How Can Bleeding Gums Be Prevented?

Preventing gums from bleeding starts with practising good oral hygiene and consuming a healthy diet.

Regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash removes plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, reducing the risk of inflammation and bleeding.
Eating a healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can improve your oral health. In particular, consume more sources of vitamin C and calcium, such as citrus fruits, spinach, leafy greens, and dairy products.
Avoid smoking and vaping, as both are associated with gum disease, and limit your alcohol intake.

What Is The Best Solution For Bleeding Gums?

Prevention is always better than the cure, according to the old saying. However, if you experience bleeding gums, pain, or an unpleasant taste, it’s important to see a dentist who will examine your mouth to identify the cause and recommend a treatment plan. Sometimes, antibiotics or mouth rinses may be prescribed to control an infection if one is present.

Regular check-ups will also allow your dentist to check the health of your gums and recommend if treatment is required. Also, ask about making an appointment with a hygienist who can professionally scale and polish your teeth to remove plaque and bacteria.

Concerned About Your Gum Health? Get In Touch Today!

If you are worried about the health of your gums or experience regular or prolonged bleeding, please arrange an appointment with New Road Dental Practice so our expert team of dentists can help you to receive the medical care you need.

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Dr. Ravi Solanki BDS Sheffield (2002) MFDS RCS (Eng) PGCME GDC No: 80945

Ravi qualified in 2002 from the University of Sheffield with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Having completed his degree, he joined New Road Dental for one year, then served as a House officer and Senior House Officer in Cardiff Dental Hospital, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Birmingham Dental Hospital. His experience included working in several specialties including Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Restorative, Paediatric, Periodontology, and conscious sedation.

Ravi is registered with the General Dental Council and is a member of the British Dental Association. He completed the prestigious Membership of the Fellowship of Dental Surgeons of the Royal College of Surgeons of England in 2005, then returned to general practice. He is a Clinical Director of New Road Dental and works full time. His particular interests include oral surgery, dental implants, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and treating anxious patients.

Ravi is an approved Foundation Dentist Trainer with the West Midlands Deanery. This is a prestigious position where he is responsible for the training of newly qualified dentists. In 2013 he successfully completed his Post Graduate Certificate in Medical Education from the University of Wolverhampton. Ravi is also a proud provider of Fastbraces® Technology.

His brother, Pritesh (Tesh), is also part of the practice. With their amazing team, they have made some improvements in the practice over the last 10 years, which means patients can now benefit from state of the art advancements in dentistry and facial aesthetics.

On the personal side, Ravi is married with 2 children – 1 boy and 1 girl. Most patients know he loves cricket and food. Ravi also swims and practices Wing Chun Kung Fu. He and his family love to travel to explore different cultures and cuisines.

Ravi says: "What I really enjoy about dentistry is the way we have changed people's lives by helping them with their confidence. The difference it makes still manages to surprise me."