Bleeding Gums - Cause, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment

Introduction:

Gum diseases are the second most common oral health ailments in adults. It is also a major reason for the majority of tooth loss. Bleeding gums can have multiple underlying causes, ranging from incorrect brushing techniques to serious gum disease. Each of us will have this question: “Is bleeding gum dangerous?.” However, a small amount of bleeding may not be a big deal, but when the gums bleed constantly, one should not overlook it. Bleeding gums themselves are not dangerous, but the underlying cause contributing to this condition may be. Bleeding gums indicate dental problems; it could also be a warning sign of a serious medical condition.

What Causes Bleeding Gums?

The main reason the gums bleed is the buildup of plaque at the gum line. Plaque refers to the sticky film of bacteria that coats the teeth. It develops when food containing carbohydrates and sugar is left over on the teeth. When this plaque is not removed for a long period, it hardens and forms calculus, leading to more bleeding and an advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis.

The other causes of gum bleeding include:

• Brushing Technique: When brushed too hard, when not brushing the teeth often enough, or when using a worn-out toothbrush.

• Improper flossing method.

• Poorly fitting or ill-fitting dentures or any other dental appliances.

• Infections of the tooth or gums.

• Trauma to the mouth or the gums.

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy.

• Vitamin C deficiency.

• Leukemia.

• Usage of blood thinners.

What Other Factors Increase the Risk of Bleeding Gums?

Anyone can develop bleeding gums, but these factors are more likely to increase the risk of developing bleeding gums:

• Older age.

• Poor oral hygiene.

• People with dry mouth.

• Smoking or chewing tobacco.

• Poor nutrition.

• People take oral contraceptive pills, certain calcium channel blockers, or anticancer drugs.

• Genetics.

What All Medical Conditions Can Cause Bleeding Gums?

There are various medical conditions whose manifestations could include bleeding gums. Here is the list of medical conditions that can cause bleeding gums:

• HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) Infection:

HIV infection is a serious infection caused by a compromised immune system. It is transmitted through blood contact, direct sexual contact with the HIV-infected individual, or from the infected mother to the baby.

The other signs and symptoms of HIV infection in the oral cavity include:

1. Soreness in the oral cavity.
2. Chronic dryness in the mouth.
3. Blisters.
4. Canker sores.
5. Receding gums.
6. Bone loss around the teeth.

• Anemia:

Anemia refers to a condition caused due to reduced red blood cell count in the blood. There are different types of anemia. One type of anemia associated with bleeding gums is pernicious anemia, a type of anemia associated with the malabsorption of vitamin B12.

• Herpes Simplex Virus Infection (HSV):

Herpes simplex virus infection causes soreness in the oral mucosa, bleeding gums, and severe pain.

• Bleeding Disorders:

Bleeding disorders such as factor V deficiency can cause symptoms like bleeding gums, easy and frequent bruising, and nosebleeds.

• Cancer:

Cancers like leukemia can cause painful eruptions on the gums, inner parts of the cheek, or tongue.

What Are the Dental Causes of Bleeding Gums?

The most common dental cause of bleeding gums is gum disease, which includes gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup, leading to irritation and bleeding. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the infection spreads to the tissues and bone supporting the teeth, causing further gum recession and potential tooth loss. Other dental causes may include aggressive brushing, improper flossing technique, or using a toothbrush with too hard bristles.

What Other Symptoms Usually Accompany Bleeding Gums?

The other symptoms that are commonly seen along with bleeding gums are:

• Persistent bad breath (halitosis).

• Painful gum sores.

• Inflamed gums.

• Gingival pain or discomfort.

• Sensitivity.

How Are Bleeding Gums Treated?

When reporting to the dentist, the first criterion includes identifying the underlying cause. The dentist collects a thorough history and determines the causes of the bleeding. If the gums bleed due to dental plaque, a deep dental cleaning is done to remove the plaque buildup. If there are other causes, like vitamin deficiency, then it is treated accordingly. So, the overall treatment solely depends on the underlying cause.

When Should One Be Concerned About Bleeding Gums?

Bleeding gums should never be overlooked; they need treatment immediately. Gums can bleed for various reasons, so the underlying cause has to be addressed.

But it may require an immediate visit to the dentist when they have the following conditions:

• When the bleeding does not stop for a very long period or does not stop even after home care treatment.

• When having unexplained symptoms along with it.

What Are the Complications of Bleeding Gums?

Bleeding gums progresses to an advanced and serious disease when left untreated.

Some of the complications of bleeding gums include:

• Periodontitis:

Periodontitis refers to an advanced form of gingivitis. It is the infection of the gums, supporting bone, and the surrounding tissues that connect the teeth and the gums. Periodontitis can also result in the mobility of the teeth.

• Trench Mouth:

Trench mouth, otherwise known as necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG), is a severe form of gingivitis causing bleeding gums and painful ulcerations.

Are There Ways to Prevent Bleeding Gums?

Bleeding gums can be prevented when following these measures:

• Have a visit to the dentist at least once every six months to remove plaque and to determine if any dental appliances or dentures are causing gums to bleed.

• Brush the teeth gently using a soft-bristle toothbrush twice daily.

• Rinse the mouth after every meal.

• Regular flossing of teeth also prevents plaque buildup.

• Avoid snacks between meals and cut down on carbohydrates as much as possible.

• If a vitamin deficiency is diagnosed, then take vitamin supplements.

• Avoid using tobacco products, as it can only worsen the bleeding.

• Having had it after taking a particular medicine, then contacting the healthcare provider and getting it substituted.

Conclusion:

Good oral hygiene practices and healthy eating are essential for maintaining gum health. Having regular dental visits helps reduce the risk factors for periodontitis, preventing the loss of teeth. In addition, the dentist will schedule effective at-home care to prevent further episodes.