Treating Bleeding Gums

Loose teeth, persistent bad breath, swollen, red gums all suggest bleeding gums and other gum diseases.

Most common cause of bleeding gum is due to formation of plaque. Plaque is formed easily and is often hidden since it occurs in sulcus, the area between the teeth.

The plaque is nothing but a film of bacteria that sticks to the gums and teeth and secreates acids that cause many form of dental problems like bad breath and cavities. It is common in people with poor dental hygiene.

Plaque often leads to gingivitis. Gingitivitis is the disease which effects periodontal ligament, tooth socket and gums. Bleeding, swollen and painful gums are characteristic symptoms of gingivitis disease. It must be treated on time otherwise gingivitis can lead to more complicated gum diseases such as periodontitis in which complete loss of teeth may occur.

Apart from plaque formation, deficiency of vitamin C and K may also be responsible for bleeding gums. Lack of vitamin C may result in mouth ulcers and consequently bleedings gum.

Excess consumption of blood thinners in the form of drugs like aspirin which contain salicylic acid may be another cause. Foods like grapes, blueberries, strawberries, cranberries and almonds are potent blood thinning foods. Those who have history of bleeding disease must always avoid them.

Home Remedies for Bleeding Gums

Drinking 4 ounce of cranberry juice everyday helps in preventing development of bacteria in mouth. Chose a marketed cranberry juice which contains no artificial flavoring or added sugar. The juice is also helpful in preventing other gum diseases.

Using toothpaste with tea tree oil helps in treatment of gingivitis-induced bleeding gums. Although the paste has not shown to reduce the plaque but it has shown to reduce the bleeding. Remember not to use tea tree oil directly for cleansing teeth. Use only standard marketed preparation. Rubbing clove oil on gums will give relief to swollen gums.

Prepare a solution of baking soda with water and rub it gently on your gums. Being alkaline, the baking soda neutralizes bacteria in the mouth.

Use soft brush for brushing your teeth and avoid eating sticky foods like sweets and gums.