• Question: what causes bleeding from the gums?

    Asked by da celeb to Sammy, Marta, Mark, Derrick, Caroline on 11 Jul 2017.
    • Photo: Marta Maia

      Marta Maia answered on 11 Jul 2017:


      Bleeding gums are caused by inadequate plaque removal. Plaque contains germs which attack the healthy tissue around the teeth. This will cause the gums to become inflamed and irritated, which may cause them to bleed when brushing or flossing. This is called Gingivitis and is the first stage of gum disease. Improvement in dental hygiene by regular brushing and using dental floss usually leads to reduction in bleeding gums.

    • Photo: Caroline Ogwang

      Caroline Ogwang answered on 12 Jul 2017:


      Hi da celeb,

      The main cause of bleeding from the gums is gum disease. Gum disease is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. If you don’t remove plaque from your teeth by brushing them, it builds up and irritates your gums. This can lead to redness with bleeding, swelling and soreness.

      Other causes of gum bleeding include:
      • Medications e.g. blood thinning medications that decrease the blood’s ability to clot, which can lead to easier bleeding.
      • New Toothbrush – Switching from a soft-bristled toothbrush to a firm brush.
      • Some pregnant women experience swollen gums and bleeding during brushing due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.

    • Photo: Sammy Wambua

      Sammy Wambua answered on 13 Jul 2017:


      Hi da celeb,

      Marta & Caroline have already explained the cause of gum bleeding as plaque build up. You might wonder what plaque is. It is invisible masses of harmful germs that live in the mouth and stick to the teeth. It is a sticky colorless deposit at first, but when it forms tartar, it is often brown or pale yellow.

      Plaque control and removal can be achieved with correct daily or twice-daily tooth brushing and use of interdental aids such as dental floss and interdental brushes.

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