How to Stop Bleeding Gums
Medically reviewed by Edmund Khoo, DDS
Bleeding gums are common. Your gums might bleed due to something harmless, like brushing your teeth too hard, improper flossing, or dentures that don’t fit right. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and certain medications can also cause bleeding gums.
Sometimes, bleeding gums result from a more serious condition, such as bleeding disorders, a vitamin deficiency, some types of blood cancer, diabetes, an infection, or gum disease. Knowing the trigger is important so you can effectively stop the bleeding.
This article discusses how to stop bleeding gums and when to contact a healthcare provider.
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Treating Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums typically go away on their own. However, some treatment options can stop the bleeding and help you feel better.
Rinse With Salt Water
A warm saltwater rinse can kill certain bacteria in your mouth and heal the bleeding. You can make a salt rinse by adding a half teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces of warm water. Swish the water around in your mouth and spit it out.
Rinse With Hydrogen Peroxide
Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide can help treat gum disease and inflammation and control bleeding. You can make a hydrogen peroxide rinse (use a concentration of 1.5% to 3%) by adding a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to warm water and swishing it around your mouth. Be sure to spit the liquid out without swallowing it. There are also mouthwashes you can purchase that contain hydrogen peroxide.
Apply a Cold Compress
A cold compress, or even an ice pack, can help soothe irritated gums and stop swelling. Hold the compress against your gums for about 10 minutes at a time.
Apply Gauze
You can help control bleeding gums by applying clean gauze to the affected area. You may even soak the gauze in ice water first. Then, apply pressure directly to the gums with the pad until the bleeding stops.
Try a Turmeric Paste
Turmeric is a yellow spice that has natural anti-inflammatory effects. Applying a turmeric paste to the gums may lessen inflammation and reduce bleeding. You can make a turmeric paste by combining 1 teaspoon of turmeric, one-half teaspoon of salt, and one-half teaspoon of mustard oil.
Ways to Prevent Bleeding Gums
The primary cause of bleeding gums is a build-up of plaque (a sticky film that coats the teeth and contains bacteria), which can lead to gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. Proper oral hygiene is important to stop bleeding and prevent gum disease.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
It's important to visit your dentist for a checkup every six months. Follow their instructions for how to care for your teeth and gums.
Experts suggest good oral hygiene to include:
Brushing your teeth at least twice daily for two minutes at a time. It's important to touch all surfaces of your mouth when you brush.
Daily flossing can also help prevent gum disease.
Using an antibacterial mouthwash can keep your mouth clean.
Takeaway
Because dry mouth can exacerbate gingivitis, staying hydrated is important. Speak with a healthcare provider if nasal congestion is causing you to breathe through your mouth, which can lead to dryness.
Check Your Toothbrush
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush so you don't injure your gums or mouth when brushing. If the bristles are worn, you should replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner.
Reduce Stress
Stress can sometimes trigger bleeding gums. To limit stress, eat a healthful diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. You may also wish to try relaxation techniques, like mindful meditation or yoga, to reduce stress levels.
Increase Vitamin C Intake
A vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy, which causes gum disease and bleeding gums. Scurvy is rare in the United States but primarily affects older people who don’t get enough vitamin C. The recommended daily dosage of vitamin C is 75 milligrams (mg) for women and 90 mg for men.
Increase Vitamin K Intake
Vitamin K makes proteins in the liver to help blood clot. A vitamin K deficiency isn’t common, but if you have one, you may bleed and bruise more easily. This vitamin is found in green leafy veggies, fish, liver, eggs, and cereals.
Eat Fewer Carbs
Starchy foods can stick to your teeth. They also break down into sugars, which may lead to plaque buildup and, ultimately, bleeding gums. If you do eat high-carb foods, be sure to brush your teeth immediately after.
Eat More Leafy Greens
Leafy greens provide adequate amounts of vitamins A, C, and K, which can help keep your gums healthy. These include:
Drink Green Tea
Some studies suggest drinking green tea daily can stop bleeding gums and help improve periodontal disease. The tea contains catechin, an antioxidant that may lower your body’s inflammatory response to bacteria.
Avoid Processed and Sugary Foods
Sugary and processed foods can increase plaque buildup, inflammation, and the development of bleeding gums. Many sodas and juices are high in sugar, which can prompt bacterial growth on the teeth. The acid in these beverages can also damage the enamel of your teeth and lead to decay.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is linked to severe gum disease and tooth loss. To promote healthy gums and prevent bleeding, you should quit smoking and steer clear of tobacco products.
Long-Term Treatment and Prevention for Bleeding Gums
A good oral hygiene routine is the best long-term strategy for preventing bleeding gums. This includes having your teeth professionally cleaned regularly. Other habits, such as eating a healthy diet, keeping stress levels low, and avoiding smoking, can also help prevent gum disease.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
If you experience persistent bleeding gums, you should make an appointment with your dentist or healthcare provider. The cause could be your brushing habits, but bleeding gums can also indicate that you have another medical condition.
Summary
Bleeding gums are common. There are a variety of causes, but most often, gum disease is the culprit. Many home remedies and lifestyle habits can help prevent or ease bleeding gums. Some ways to help stop bleeding gums include good oral hygiene, reducing stress, quitting smoking, trying a hydrogen peroxide rinse, using cold compresses, eating leafy greens, and more.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
