Understanding the reasons behind bleeding gums is essential in maintaining oral health and preventing further complications. So why are your gums bleeding when you brush and floss? Let’s take a look at some of the major culprits.

Gingivitis

The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is characterized by inflammation caused by plaque buildup at the gumline. Symptoms often include redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing [1]. Without proper treatment, gingivitis can progress to more severe periodontal disease.

Improper Brushing or Flossing Techniques

Using a toothbrush with hard bristles or brushing too aggressively can damage the gums, leading to bleeding. Similarly, flossing harshly or incorrectly can cause trauma to the gum tissue, causing bleeding. It’s crucial to ensure proper brushing and flossing techniques to protect your gums.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Failing to maintain adequate oral hygiene can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, both of which can irritate the gums. This can ultimately result in bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth.

Vitamin Deficiencies

A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to gum bleeding. Vitamin C is crucial for repairing tissues and maintaining the overall health of gums [2]. Likewise, low levels of Vitamin K, which helps blood clotting, can also contribute to gum bleeding.

Certain Medications

Certain medications, such as blood thinners and some over-the-counter pain relievers, can increase the likelihood of gum bleeding as they interfere with the blood’s ability to clot. Your dentist can help assess if your medication is causing your gum bleeding.

Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause cause hormonal changes that can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding [3]. It’s not uncommon for pregnant people, teenagers, and older women to have more sensitive and bleeding gums.

Addressing and Preventing Bleeding Gums

If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it’s important to:

• Take good care of your smile. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush at least twice daily (at least 30 minutes after eating) and floss at least once a day. 
• Eat a healthy diet. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins C and K into your diet, such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, and broccoli, to strengthen your gums and overall dental health.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria from your teeth and gums, reducing the likelihood of plaque buildup.
• See your dentist. Regular check-ups and professional cleanings with your dentist can help identify and treat any underlying issues before they become severe.
• Adjust lifestyle habits. Reduce or quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as both can contribute to gum disease and associated symptoms.

Ask Your Dentist About Your Gum Health

If bleeding persists despite adhering to good oral hygiene practices or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, bad breath, or receding gums, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. Contact your dentist to book an exam to assess your gum health. Your gums play a crucial role in a healthy body and smile, so don’t wait!

Sources:

1. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/bleeding-gums
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8784414/
3. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/womens-hormones-and-dental-health

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But what exactly does this procedure involve? Here are the details on a scaling and root planing procedure and what you can expect if your dentist has recommended this treatment to improve your gum health.

Understanding the Procedure

Scaling and root planing consist of two main components, as the name suggests. 

Scaling removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from both above and below the gum line down to the roots of the affected teeth. Root planing smooths out rough spots on tooth roots where tartar has accumulated.

The process reaches deep into periodontal pockets, which are spaces between the teeth and gums that get deeper with gum disease. Dentists typically use a combination of manual and ultrasonic instruments to complete the procedure with local anesthesia for comfort.

When Scaling and Root Planing Are Necessary

Scaling and root planing are meant to treat gum disease [2]. If you have periodontal pockets measuring 4mm or deeper, visible tartar buildup, bleeding or tender gums, or evidence of bone loss in the jaw, your dentist may recommend a scaling and root planing procedure to restore your gum health.

What to Expect During a Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

After your initial consultation, you may need to schedule a separate appointment for your scaling and root planing.

Your mouth will be numbed with local anesthesia before your dentist or hygienist begins the procedure. They’ll use specialized tools, including ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments, to meticulously remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria above and below the gum line (scaling).

They then smooth out rough spots on the tooth roots (planing). This process is typically done one section of the mouth at a time. The cleaning extends into the periodontal pockets, reaching areas that regular brushing and flossing can’t.

After the procedure, your mouth may take up to a month to fully heal, although initial healing only takes two to three days. Your dentist will want to see you back for regular checkups to ensure your smile is healing properly and that the procedure has the intended effect.

Ensuring Long-Term Success After the Procedure

Scaling and root planing isn’t a standalone treatment for gum inflammation and disease. It’s crucial to continue proper oral hygiene at home to ensure success after your initial treatment [3].

Depending on the severity of your periodontal disease, you may need subsequent scaling and root planing procedures to heal your smile. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to clear up any infection in your oral cavity due to gum disease. 

Your dental team will work closely with you to ensure you have the best chance of success with this procedure and recovering from gum disease.

Schedule Your Scaling and Root Planing Procedure Today

If you have bleeding, tender, or inflamed gum tissue, you could benefit from scaling and root planing. Schedule an appointment with your dental professional today for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation and to discuss whether scaling and root planing might benefit your smile and protect your oral health!

Sources:

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27929624/
2. https://www.ada.org/sitecore/content/ADA-Organization/ADA/MouthHealthy/home/all-topics-a-z/scaling-and-root-planing
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/scaling-and-root-planing

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