Bleeding Gums

Notice some blood after brushing or flossing your teeth? In Singapore, it is estimated that up to 85% of the population has experienced some form of gum bleeding before.
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Although bleeding from the gums is a common occurrence, it is usually the first sign of early stage gum (periodontal) disease. You should not ignore bleeding gums if they bleed consistently and on a regular basis.
Gum Disease, Bleeding Gums Singapore
Image: goodhealth.dental
What Causes Your Gums to Bleed?
During your meals, food remains in periodontal pockets between your teeth. Although brushing and flossing usually can remove the majority of the food particles, the remaining food that is stuck will break down into acids and bacteria.

This leads to a build-up of plaque at the gum line, causing gum diseases. One of the early symptoms of gum disease is that of gum bleeding.

The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. This occurs when you suffer from gum tissue inflammation. Blood blisters are formed inside your periodontal pockets (spaces between adjacent teeth) and your gingival tissue turns red.

​Once you brush or floss your teeth, these blisters break open and blood flows to a visible place on the top of the gingiva.

There are the 7 main causes of bleeding gums:
  1. Gingivitis
  2. Using a toothbrush with harder bristles
  3. Pressing too hard while flossing
  4. Lack of vitamin K
  5. Hormonal changes such as pregnancy
  6. On medications such as blood thinners and blood pressure pills
  7. Leukaemia
Gum Disease Singapore, Bleeding Gums Singapore
Image: advanceddds.com
What Can I Do To Prevent Or Stop Gum Bleeding?
The most important thing you should make sure is to visit your dentist on a regular basis, which means at least once every six months. After a dental inspection, your dentist will remove the plaque from your teeth and provide you with important dental aftercare instructions.

Be gentle when you are brushing your teeth and try to avoid using toothbrushes with sharp bristles. Also, make sure to brush on a regular basis. It is recommended to brush your teeth after each meal or at least twice a day.

​As a further precaution, your dentist might advise you to avoid using alcohol-based mouthwash. Instead, rinse using a combination of water and hydrogen peroxide or with salt water.

Here are some other useful tips:
  • Floss two times a day
  • Avoid taking aspirin (unless recommended or prescribed by your doctor)
  • When your gums are bleeding, soak a gauze pad in cold water and apply direct pressure on them
  • Avoid smoking as tobacco contributes to gum bleeding
  • Take vitamin supplements in cases of vitamin deficiency​​
When Should I Contact My Dentist
Apart from the regular dental appointments, you should contact your local dentist if:
  • You received a dental treatment but your gums are still bleeding
  • Your bleeding is either long-term or severe
  • You notice other symptoms that you cannot explain aside from the bleeding

A dental visit should not be avoided, as it is important to maintain a good dental health. During your visit, the dentist will conduct a thorough check on your teeth and gums for any potential dental conditions.​
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