Imagine brushing your teeth, and you taste a familiar metallic taste of blood. Experiencing bleeding while brushing your teeth can be worrying; in some cases, it should concern you.
Ideally, your gums should not bleed when you brush. However, this common phenomenon can occur for various reasons, for example, using a hard-bristled toothbrush or the onset of periodontal disease. In this blog, we’ll help you understand the root cause of your gums bleeding while brushing your teeth.
Can a Toothbrush or Toothpaste Cause Bleeding Gums?
One of the first things you might suspect about bleeding gums while brushing your teeth may be the components involved in your oral hygiene routine. In some cases, this proves true. According to WebMD, brushing too hard or using a hard toothbrush can lead to bleeding gums.
Alternatively, some people may be sensitive to certain ingredients in toothpaste. If you experience gum sensitivity, bleeding, or sores when using toothpaste, you might be allergic to some of its ingredients.
The most common part of the oral hygiene routine that results in bleeding gums is flossing. Improper flossing or flossing sensitive gums can sometimes cause bleeding. To prevent it, go along the curve of your teeth and not dig into your gums.
Alternate Causes of Bleeding When Brushing Teeth
Many causes of bleeding gums might not be linked to your oral hygiene routine. Health Direct says that plaque buildup is one of the most common reasons gums bleed after brushing teeth. It indicates that gum disease might be at play.
Periodontal disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, damages the gums and causes bleeding. Additionally, nutritional deficiencies, like a lack of vitamin C, can lead to the development of scurvy. This condition is characterized by inflamed gums that bleed easily.
For some people, hormonal changes can also cause bleeding gums. For example, some pregnant women experience a form of periodontal disease known as pregnancy gingivitis. There are many reasons why gums bleed. However, you can determine the cause by visiting a dental professional.
How Do I Stop My Gums from Bleeding When I Brush?
It can be frustrating to experience bleeding gums every time you brush. Thankfully, this condition is usually easy to treat. You can start by changing your brush for one with softer bristles. Avoiding aggressive brushing techniques and opting for gentler circular motions is essential.
You can help prevent gum disease by brushing twice a day and using an antibacterial mouthwash. However, if these measures don’t work, get a dental consultation so that they can determine the root cause of your bleeding gums.
End Note
Bleeding gums when brushing your teeth is not normal and should not be treated as such. While it could be due to aggressive brushing techniques or temporary issues, in some cases, it’s a sign of serious conditions.
The best way to determine why your gums bleed when you brush is to visit a dental professional. Consider visiting our certified dentist, Niraj Shah, DDS, at Smile 360 Family Dentistry. He can diagnose whether you have periodontal disease and provide effective treatment. Schedule a consultation by dialing (909) 980-4878.