You’re brushing your teeth, and everything seems normal—until you spit and see pink in the sink. Bleeding gums can be easy to ignore, especially if there’s no pain, but they’re not something to brush off completely. Sometimes, the cause is minor, like brushing too hard. Other times, it’s a warning sign of a bigger issue.
So how do you know when it’s nothing to worry about and when it’s time to call your emergency dentist in Chesapeake, VA? Here’s what your gums might be trying to tell you.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
Gums can bleed for a variety of reasons, some harmless and some… not so much. Here are the usual suspects:
- Gingivitis: The mildest form of gum disease, gingivitis happens when plaque builds up along the gumline, causing irritation. If your gums look puffy, red, and bleed easily, gingivitis could be the culprit. The good news? It’s reversible with better oral care.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis goes unchecked, it can turn into periodontitis, a serious infection that damages gum tissue and even the bones supporting your teeth.
- Brushing or Flossing Too Hard: Your gums aren’t made of steel. If you’re scrubbing your teeth like you’re trying to remove rust from an old car, ease up! A soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle flossing will do the trick.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Lack of vitamin C (which helps maintain gum health) or vitamin K (which helps with blood clotting) can make gums more prone to bleeding.
- Medications: Blood thinners and other medications can make your gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding. If you’ve noticed a change after starting a new prescription, talk to your doctor or dentist.
When It’s Not an Emergency
If your gums bleed once in a while but stop quickly, you’re probably in the clear. Some common, non-emergency scenarios include:
- Bleeding after flossing, especially if you’re new to it or haven’t been consistent.
- Minor irritation from eating something crunchy.
- A little blood after brushing too aggressively.
In these cases, you can usually manage the situation at home:
- Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss gently and consistently—your gums will toughen up over time.
- Rinse with warm salt water to soothe irritation.
When It’s a Dental Emergency
Sometimes, bleeding gums are more than just a little irritation—they’re a distress signal. Call your dentist ASAP if you experience:
- Persistent Bleeding: If your gums keep bleeding even after you’ve stopped brushing or flossing, that’s not normal.
- Pain and Swelling: If your gums are tender, swollen, and bleeding, you could have an infection brewing.
- Loose Teeth or Receding Gums: It could mean advanced periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
- Bleeding After an Injury: If you’ve had a fall or a blow to the mouth and your gums won’t stop bleeding, seek emergency dental care.
- Other Alarming Symptoms: Bad breath that won’t go away, pus along the gumline, or a foul taste in your mouth could all point to a serious infection.
If any of these apply to you, don’t wait—seek professional help before the problem gets worse.
Get Expert Care for Bleeding Gums—Visit an Emergency Dentist in Chesapeake, VA
Bleeding gums might not always be an emergency, but they’re never something to ignore. If the bleeding is minor and goes away quickly, you can probably handle it with better oral care. But if it’s persistent, painful, or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s time to see a dentist.
Not sure if your gum situation is normal or serious? Let the experts at Advanced Sedation Dentistry take a look. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!