Bleeding gums can be a sign that you are at risk for, or already have, gum disease. However, persistent gum bleeding may be due to serious medical conditions such as leukemia and bleeding and platelet disorders.

It is important to follow the instructions from your dentist in order to maintain healthy gums. Improper brushing and flossing technique may actually irritate or traumatize the gum tissue.

Bleeding gums are mainly due to inadequate plaque removal from the teeth at the gum line. This will lead to a condition called gingivitis, or inflamed gums.

If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and dental appointments, it will harden into what is known as tartar. Ultimately, this will lead to increased bleeding and a more advanced form of gum and jawbone disease known as periodontitis.

Other causes of bleeding gums include:

• Use of blood thinners
• Brushing too hard
• Improper flossing
• Infection, which can be either tooth or gum-related
• Scurvy
• Vitamin K deficiency
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy
• Leukemia
• Ill-fitting dentures
• Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

• Visit the dentist at least once every 6 months for plaque removal. Follow your dentist's home care instructions.
• Brush teeth gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush after every meal. The dentist may recommend rinsing with salt water or hydrogen peroxide and water. Avoid using commercial, alcohol-containing mouthwashes, which aggravate the problem.
• Floss teeth twice a day to keep plaque from building up.
• Eliminate between-meal snacks and reduce carbohydrate intake to help prevent plaque build-up on teeth.
• Use an oral irrigation device on the low setting to massage the gums.
• Maintain a balanced, healthy diet.

• Avoid the use of tobacco, which aggravates bleeding gums.
• Have poorly fitting dentures adjusted and relined by your dentist if they are causing sore spots in gums.
• Avoid aspirin unless your health care provider has recommended that you take it.
• Control gum bleeding by applying pressure directly on the gums with a gauze pad soaked in ice water.
• If you have been diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency, take recommended vitamin supplements
• If side effects of medication are irritating, ask your doctor to adjust or substitute another medication. Never change your medication without consulting your doctor.