by Maxwell Payne

Created on: March 03, 2007   Last Updated: June 19, 2010

Causes and treatment of bleeding gums.

Sensitive gums may bleed more easily, but these tips can help reduce gum irritation and while also helping to reduce the occurrence of bleeding gums.

If your gums are bleeding, this does not automatically mean that you have gingivitis. People tend to assume that the instant blood is seen on or around the gums that a case of gingivitis has developed.

While gingivitis is sometimes a cause of gum bleeding, the more common explanation is that you have very sensitive gums. Many people have this condition and even everyday brushing can cause irritation that leads to some minor gum bleeding. (Going to the dentist and having them do a cleaning results in much more bleeding)

A few ways to minimize gum bleeding and irritation are the following:

-Try using a softer bristled brush and use steady but lighter strokes. Your brushing your gums and teeth, not buffing a car.

-With flossing try the new 'floss brushes' these are simply handles with disposable tips that hold a tightly pulled piece of floss in them. Generally this will allow you just the right angle and depth to get in between teeth without hitting the gum line more then you need to.

-Use a product such as Listerine; twice daily is recommended especially if you aren't able to brush as much intensely as you'd like due to bleeding. Dilute it with water if it is too strong and causing redness in your gums.

-Always rinse with water in between brushing and mouthwash use, and always rinse after this especially when you have blood coming from your gums.

Plaque buildup between the teeth hardens and can literally dig into your gums a bit; its only natural that when this tough plaque is freed, the wound it caused will bleed a little bit.

So don't panic and assume the worse when you have bleeding gums, however if your gums appear unusually red, are bleeding even when not brushing or cleaning (ie when chewing or speaking), or you have pain in your gums contact your dentist. I have minor gum bleeding at least twice a month; for me gingivitis has almost always been ruled out. I have zero cavities and I admit I do not floss as often as I should.

Overall brushing your teeth more gently but regularly will help your gums firm up and adjust to this barrage of bristles. I've noticed bleeding occurs for me after a vigorous brushing or when I haven't brushed as often in the preceding days.

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