Bleeding gums during tooth brushing is a warning sign of gingivitis, which occurs when bacteria and plaque build up in the mouth and irritate gum tissue. The precursor to gum disease, gingivitis is reversible with proper home care and services from your dentist. If your gums bleed when you brush, review what you should do here.

How Can I Stop My Gums From Bleeding When I Brush?

1. Improve Oral Hygiene

Revamp brushing and flossing efforts to remove more bacteria and plaque from your mouth. Brush your teeth using circular motions twice a day for two minutes. Gentle motions using a soft-bristled brush prevent gum bleeding and wear, as well as enamel damage. Also, ensure you floss correctly by working the filament between each tooth and making “C” shapes to clean under the gum line to remove food particles and bacteria unreachable with a toothbrush.

2. Consume Immune-Boosting Vitamins

Increase your intake of vitamins C and K since consuming too little of either nutrient contributes to gum bleeding. Vitamin K promotes efficient coagulation processes, while vitamin C helps tissues heal quickly. Take supplements and eat foods high in both vitamins, including sweet potatoes, oranges, red peppers, carrots, kale, spinach, collard greens, and mustard greens.

3. Stress Less

Reduce your stress level in healthy ways, such as practicing meditation and deep breathing, going for walks, reading, spending time with friends and family, and doing yoga. Stress lowers immunity to prevent efficient gum tissue healing, and studies indicate a connection between gum disease and emotional distress. 

4. Use a Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide after brushing and flossing at your dentist’s suggestion. The clear solution has been shown to improve gingivitis symptoms and help whiten teeth, according to recent studies. Just remember to spit the liquid out instead of swallowing it to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort.

Discuss these and other ways to combat bleeding gums with Gregory Sy, DDS & Associates. The family dentist serves residents throughout Lorain and Amherst, OH, providing general and cosmetic dentistry services, including dental crowns and teeth whitening. Call (440) 282-9550 to make an appointment, or visit them online for service details.