Expert Talk
1. Plaque Gum bleeding occurs due to excessive plaque buildup, which causes gum inflation, leading to bleeding. This plaque buildup is mostly a result of not brushing or flossing your teeth enough.
2. Brushing Too Hard If you brush too hard, too often, or with a toothbrush that’s too rough on your gums, this can cause bleeding.
3. Ill Fitting Dentures Or Other Dental Appliances If your dentures do not fit your mouth properly, they can rub against the gum tissue in unnatural ways. The extra friction and pressure against your gums can lead to swelling and irritation, which in turn leads to gum bleeding.
4. Gum Disease The main cause of bleeding gums is the buildup of plaque at the gum line. This will lead to a condition called ‘gingivitis’, or inflamed gums. Plaque that is not removed will harden into tartar. This will lead to increased bleeding and a more advanced form of gum and jawbone disease known as ‘periodontitis’.
5. Other Systemic Reasons – Hormonal changes during pregnancy – Leukaemia, a type of blood cancer – Scurvy, a Vitamin C deficiency – Use of blood thinners – Vitamin K deficiency