Bleeding Gums

Mouth | Odontologie | Bleeding Gums (Symptom)


Description

Bleeding on probing commonly known as bleeding gums or gingival bleeding is a term used by dentists to describe bleeding that is induced by gentle manipulation of the tissue at the depth of the gingival sulcus, or interface between the gingiva and a tooth.

Pregnant women and people with diabetes mellitus are especially susceptible. Bleeding gums can be a symptom of gingivitis, the inflammation of the gums, which occurs due to a number of different causes.

Causes

The main cause of gingival bleeding is plaque formation and accumulation at the gum line because of improper brushing and flossing of teeth. The hardened form of plaque is called tartar. An advanced form of gingivitis as a result of formation of plaque is called periodontitis.

Other causes that can exacerbate gingival bleeding include: placement of new dentures, tooth or gum infection, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, leukemia, malnutrition, use of aspirin and anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin and heparin, hormonal imbalances during puberty and pregnancy, vitamin C deficiency and vitamin K deficiency, dengue fever.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Good oral hygiene is the main means of preventing and treating gingivitis. Untreated, it may damage gum tissue, which may lead to chronic periodontitis. Acute ulcerative gingivitis may develop in people with chronic gingivitis, especially those with lowered resistance to infection.

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