How to Manage Bleeding Gums: Emergency Dental Advice

Bleeding gums happen to many people worldwide. It is usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and inflammation. Some forms of bleeding gums stop quickly and don’t cause any problems, while the other forms can be more severe, indicating serious health conditions. Today, we want to give you all the information you need to help you manage bleeding gums effectively.

If you are interested in this topic, join us until the end.

Why Bleeding Gums Happen and How to Identify Them

Several reasons can cause bleeding gums. Identifying the root cause of this issue is necessary and significantly helps in finding the proper solution for each individual.

Different Forms of Gum Disease

People who are dealing with periodontal problems may experience bleeding gums. The initial step of gum disease is gingivitis. At this level, the patient may notice gum irritation and bleeding, while individuals with periodontitis usually experience severe symptoms and excessive bleeding.

Improper Brushing and Flossing 

Using a hard-bristle toothbrush, brushing roughly, and using dental floss too frequently, can lead to gum injury and bleeding. Gently brush and floss your teeth to prevent this issue.

Vitamin Deficiencies 

An adequate amount of some vitamins, especially vitamin C, can maintain your gum’s health. The lack of these vitamins and nutrients may cause bleeding gums. It is essential to eat a balanced diet to receive the vitamins your body needs.

Immediate Steps to Take When Your Gums Are Bleeding

Bleeding gums can occur due to various reasons. Sometimes because of poor oral hygiene, and sometimes because of more serious health issues such as periodontitis, infection, or diabetes. However, if you notice your gum is bleeding, you should take some quick steps such as: 

• Rinsing your mouth: Add some salt to warm water and rinse your mouth with it. It is a helpful way to reduce the bacteria accumulation.
• Using a soft-bristle toothbrush: To prevent bacteria growth, you should adhere to oral hygiene practices by brushing your teeth gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Be mindful about the food you consume: Hard or crunchy food can cause irritation and swelling. Consume soft foods and remove the remaining food particles between your teeth with dental floss.

When to Visit an Emergency Dentist for Bleeding Gums

If you are experiencing mild and temporary gum bleeding, you can handle it by following simple tips at home. However, in more serious cases, professional and prompt care is required. Here, we have mentioned the situations when you should contact your emergency dentist for urgent dental care.

• The bleeding is excessive and uncontrollable: Sometimes, the bleeding can not be controlled, even after using over-the-counter products. This heavy bleeding is usually a symptom of more serious issues such as gum disease and infection.
• You feel severe and permanent pain: bleeding gums and infection normally are accompanied by severe pain. You should contact an experienced emergency dentist immediately to get your required treatment.
• You can see the symptoms of infection: If you can see some visible signs of infection, such as swelling, inflammation, unpleasant odor, or a bad taste in your mouth, you should book an urgent dental visit with a dental professional.

Over-the-counter Solutions for Managing Bleeding Gums

People with bleeding gums can use over-the-counter products to control the symptoms before visiting their dentist. These products can reduce inflammation and pain temporarily but must not be considered an alternative for professional treatment. Rinsing your mouth with antibacterial mouthwashes can help you manage swelling. If you are in pain, some drugs, such as ibuprofen, can temporarily relieve your pain. Remember to use a soft-bristle toothbrush for sensitive gums to avoid further irritation.

Home Remedies to Soothe Bleeding Gums

Contacting your emergency dentist is necessary if you have noticed your gums are bleeding. However, some home remedies can help you control it until you consult with your dentist. For instance, Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. It reduces the accumulation of bacteria, or apply a cold compress on the outside of your mouth. It can reduce swelling and stop bleeding.

What Is the Link Between Bleeding Gums and Oral Health?

Bleeding gums are often a sign of a more serious issue. It can result from conditions such as gum disease, diabetes, blood clotting disorders, respiratory infections, or vitamin deficiencies. The gum bleeding must be addressed immediately because it may allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream and pose a serious threat to the patient’s life.

Final Word

Bleeding gums can be a sign of underlying oral health issues, and addressing them promptly is essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Identifying the common causes and taking immediate steps can help manage the situation effectively.

Are your gums bleeding? Don’t worry! We are here to help you. Our experienced team at Eagle Family Dentistry can manage dental emergencies perfectly, helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile again. They listen to your concerns and answer your questions with patience, providing you with the information you might need to control gum bleeding or other dental emergency issues. You can always count on us. Schedule your emergency appointment with us right now!

FAQs

1. Is bleeding gums a sign of a serious dental problem?

Bleeding gums can indicate gum disease, poor oral hygiene, or other issues. Persistent bleeding may require professional attention.

2. What should I do if my gums don’t stop bleeding?

Apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze, rinse with salt water, and avoid irritating the area. Seek emergency dental care if bleeding continues.

3. Can I treat bleeding gums at home, or do I need to see a dentist?

Mild cases can often be managed at home with good oral hygiene and remedies like saltwater rinses, but ongoing or severe bleeding requires a dentist’s evaluation.

4. Where can I find emergency dental care for bleeding gums?

Search online for emergency dentists near you, call your local dental clinic, or check with a dental hotline for immediate assistance.