Bleeding gums aren’t normal, so if you notice that yours are starting to bleed frequently, you’ll need to take action. Try following a few simple tips to improve the health of your gums and to stop the bleeding.
Improve Your Dental Hygiene
Bleeding gums are a primary symptom of gingivitis, which can occur when plaque is allowed to build up on the gum line. When this plaque isn’t removed, it will harden to form tartar, which irritates the gums. The best way to reduce the amount of plaque on your teeth and to avoid potentially bleeding gums is to brush and floss regularly and efficiently.
Get a New Toothbrush
Many people make the mistake of believing that a toothbrush with hard bristles will be the best tool for cleaning their teeth, but this simply isn’t true. Harder bristles can actually be irritating, potentially leading to bleeding of the gums. Instead, search for a toothbrush that has soft bristles, as these tools will be able to thoroughly clean your gums and teeth without causing all of that irritation.
Review Your Medications
Some medications can increase the chance of bleeding gums, such as aspirin. Aspirin is a blood thinner, so it is known to increase bleeding. Prescription medications may also cause bleeding gums, so if you suspect that a drug prescribed to you by your physician is the cause, contact him to discuss your concerns. There might be another medication that he can prescribe that won’t cause these issues.
Visit Your Dentist
If the previously noted tips don’t solve your bleeding gum problem, it is probably time to visit your dentist. He will examine your gums and teeth to ensure that you haven’t developed a more serious condition, and treatment options will be discussed. Contact our office today to set up an appointment.
