The gums are an often overlooked but extremely important element of our oral health. It surrounds and protects our teeth and ensures the stability of our periodontium.
Let's be honest, our primary focus is on our teeth. It's only when blood drips into the sink while brushing our teeth that most of us pay attention. And they should, because bleeding gums when brushing your teeth should not be underestimated.
But what does bleeding gums actually mean? Why does it occur and how can we protect and heal our gums? With this article we will make you aware of your gums and explain to you how to care for them effectively and prevent bleeding gums.
Bleeding gums causes
- Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) is the most common cause.
- Gum diseases such as periodontitis.
- Injuries caused by brushing or flossing too hard.
- Medications and medical conditions that may cause bleeding.
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation.
Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) as a trigger for bleeding gums
Bleeding gums can be an early and serious sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis). This inflammation is caused by harmful bacteria that settle and multiply in the plaque on the gum line. Typical symptoms of gingivitis include bleeding gums, red, swollen gums, and often unpleasant bad breath.
Bleeding gums due to an unbalanced oral flora
Disturbed oral flora can make the problem of bleeding gums even worse. Because our mouth is an ecosystem in which different types of bacteria should exist in balance, when this balance is disrupted, harmful bacteria grow and promote inflammation of the gums.
The good news is that you can bring the disturbed oral flora back into balance with special care. This balances the sensitive bacterial balance by promoting the good bacteria in order to ultimately push the bad ones out of the picture. Not only do the bad bacteria disappear and with them the unpleasant bleeding gums, but general oral and body health also improves. As you can see, it is important not to ignore the problem and to act proactively.
At this point, it would be grossly negligent if we did not refer to the MINT Biotic line. This is the dental and oral care from MINT that brings your oral flora back into balance and makes your gums shine. Find out more here: MINT Biotic Line
Bleeding gums due to periodontitis
Bleeding gums are often a warning sign of a serious gum disease known as periodontitis. This progressive condition goes beyond gum disease and can have serious consequences.
Periodontitis develops when untreated gingivitis bacteria penetrate deeper into the gum tissue. This leads to inflammation, periodontitis, which separates the gums from the teeth, and eventually leads to periodontal disease, which results in tooth loss. Here, too, we see that it is absolutely advisable to tackle the problem early, because in the early stages you can still turn the tables.
Injuries to the oral mucosa
Bleeding gums also occur due to injuries to the delicate oral mucosa. These injuries are caused by various factors, including:
- Brushing your teeth too hard
- Flossing incorrectly
- Spicy foods
- Dentures or braces
- Injuries caused by accidents
Medication
Unfortunately, bleeding gums are also an undesirable side effect of medication. Certain medicines, such as blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) and some antihypertensive medications, may increase the risk of bleeding in the gums. This is because they affect blood clotting and cause the gums to be more sensitive to irritation.
In addition, some medications have the risk of causing dry mouth (xerostomia), which further increases the risk of gum problems. A dry mouth promotes the growth of harmful bacteria that irritate the gums.
If you suspect that your medications are causing your gums to bleed, you should definitely discuss this with your doctor or dentist. It is important not to stop the medication on your own, but to look for alternative solutions. Your dentist can recommend specific oral care products or provide tips to minimize the risk.
Bleeding of gums in pregnancy
Bleeding gums are not uncommon during pregnancy and occur due to hormonal changes. Pregnant women often experience increased gum sensitivity, known as pregnancy gingivitis. This condition causes redness, swelling, and bleeding gums.
It is important to practice extra-careful oral hygiene during pregnancy. This includes regular brushing, gentle flossing, and regular dental visits. If you experience bleeding gums or other oral problems, pregnant women should consult their dentist for appropriate treatment and care recommendations.
Dental health during pregnancy is important not only for the mother but also for the well-being of the child. Therefore, pregnant women should consider oral health as part of their comprehensive prenatal care.
How to stop bleeding gums?
You should definitely not ignore bleeding gums. The sooner you act, the quicker you can avert something worse. There are effective measures you can take and implement immediately:
Gentle and good oral hygiene
Careful oral hygiene is key. We strongly recommend using a soft toothbrush. The teeth should not be scrubbed, but should be brushed gently so as not to injure the gums. A suitable mouthwash is ideal for particularly gentle cleaning of the spaces between the teeth. But dental floss and interdental brushes are also very effective when used correctly.
Brush your teeth with the proper brushing technique
Technique is crucial, and you won't believe how many people damage their gums every day simply by using the wrong brushing technique. Please always clean your teeth gently, from the gum line downwards or upwards. When you stroke down or up with the toothbrush, starting from the edge of the gums, you not only remove plaque, but also gently massage the gums and stimulate blood circulation.
A balanced and healthy diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein provides your body with important nutrients and keeps you healthy. Vitamin C, K, and D are particularly important for the health of your gums.
vitamin C
Citrus fruits, peppers, strawberries, and kiwis
Vitamin K
Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and kale
Vitamin D
Fatty fish (salmon), eggs, fortified foods
Live smoke-free
Smoking is a risk factor for gum inflammation and bleeding. Do you want to optimize your oral health? Then first remove the glow stick!
Regular dental visits with professional teeth cleaning and prophylaxis
It is particularly important to have your teeth examined regularly by a dentist and to have treatments carried out if indicated. These check-ups should ideally take place as part of a professional teeth cleaning and prophylaxis. With this, you are definitely on the safe side.
For bleeding gums toothpaste - is there one?
Yes, there are. However, a toothpaste that takes care of the gums, both protectively and regeneratively, and ultimately actually promotes gum health, has to be able to do a lot.
We at MINT are therefore very proud to be able to offer the perfect product in this area, and we have spent years of scientific work taking all aspects surrounding the gums into account and integrating them into our care. With our Paro+ dental care line, we have created the optimal booster for your gums that you can rely on for the long term.
MINT Paro+ products are formulated with high-quality, anti-inflammatory active ingredients and vitamins to soothe sensitive gums, reduce inflammation, and promote regeneration. The MINT Paro+ wellness package consists of toothpaste, mouthwash, and gum serum. Briefly about the important ingredients, which, of course, we don't want to withhold from you:
- Allantoin regenerates
- Hyaluron moisturizes, soothes, and has a healing effect
- Eucalyptus and chamomile extracts have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Menthol for good blood circulation
- Panthenol to prevent irritation
- Vitamin B, E, and K as valuable gum protection
So, what are you waiting for? Let yourself be seduced by our gentle yet powerful dental care and enjoy the feeling of radiant teeth and a strengthened periodontium. Your oral health deserves only the best; discover our contribution to the fight against bleeding gums now.
When should you definitely consult a dentist if you have bleeding gums?
There are certain situations in which you should definitely consult a dentist immediately if your gums are bleeding:
Persistently bleeding gums
If bleeding gums occur regularly over a long period of time and do not subside, this is a clear warning sign and should be examined immediately.
Severe bleeding
If bleeding gums are severe and persistent, it may indicate serious gum disease that requires urgent attention.
Pain or swelling
Accompanying pain or swelling of the gums usually indicates an infection or deeper inflammation that needs to be treated.
Loosening of teeth
If you feel your teeth becoming loose or moving, this may indicate advanced gum disease and should be examined immediately.
In general, if bleeding gums persist for more than a week or are accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a dentist. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to control gum problems and prevent serious consequences.
Conclusion on the topic of bleeding gums
Bleeding flesh may be annoying, but it is the alarm our mouth sounds to alert us to our health. The good news is that you can take the wheel!
With gentle oral hygiene, the right brushing technique, a healthy diet, and a smoke-free lifestyle, you can keep your gums sparkling. Remember, your gums are the unsung hero of your oral health and deserve the utmost attention. After all, all dental health depends on it. Essential: Regular check-ups with your dentist with professional teeth cleaning and prophylaxis - half the battle for your radiant smile with healthy gums.
