If you experience bleeding gums when brushing or flossing your teeth, you may want to ignore the issue. However, it is vital to know that bleeding gums can indicate an underlying oral problem. Injury, inflammation, pregnancy, or vigorous brushing can cause bleeding. The following are methods to try to stop bleeding gums.
 

• Good Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene may cause bleeding gums. The buildup of plaque can cause the gums to become inflamed, causing bleeding. Regular brushing and flossing can help stop the bleeding. You may experience bleeding when you first start flossing, but this is temporary.
 

• Soft-bristled Toothbrush

It is not enough to brush your teeth regularly; you need to use the right tools and techniques. Sometimes, bleeding gums may result from using the wrong toothbrush. If you have sensitive gums, look for a toothbrush that is soft on the gums. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes.
 

• Using Mouthwash

Using an antibacterial mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide to rinse your mouth can help prevent gum inflammation or gingivitis. The solution acts as a disinfectant that can help kill bacteria, improve gum health, and stop bleeding gums. Rinse after brushing your teeth.
 

• Warm Salt Water Rinse

Using warm salt water to rinse your mouth can help stop bleeding gums. A salt water rinse helps reduce bacteria, speeding up the healing process. Rinse the mouth several times a day, swishing the water around the mouth before spitting the liquid.
 

• A Cold Compress

Applying ice or a cold compress can help soothe swollen or inflamed gums, reducing bleeding. Ice packs can also help soothe mouth injuries that cause gum bleeding and swelling resulting from gingivitis.
 

• Increase Vitamin C

A diet lacking vitamin C can worsen gum disease or lead to bleeding gums, even with good oral habits. Consuming foods rich in vitamin C can help improve gum health by strengthening the immune system. Increase your intake of citrus fruits, red peppers, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
 

• Increase Vitamin K

Vitamin K deficiency can lead to easy bleeding. Taking vitamin K supplements can stop bleeding gums by helping the blood clot. You can also consume foods rich in vitamins, such as spinach, kale, mustard greens, and collard greens. 
 

• Avoid Smoking

Smoking or using tobacco products can increase the risk of developing gum disease. It can lower the immune system, making you more susceptible to disease. Quitting smoking can help stop bleeding, allowing your gums to heal.
 

• Reducing Stress

Research suggests that emotional stress can affect the immune system, increasing the risk of gum disease. Practicing relaxation techniques and other methods to reduce stress can help stop bleeding gums.
 

• Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a popular practice in Ayurvedic medicine. It involves the use of oil to pull bacteria out of the mouth. Proponents recommend swishing the oil around the mouth before spitting it out. Coconut oil is a good option for oil pulling.
 

Other ways to stop bleeding gums include drinking green tea, applying turmeric paste, and consuming fewer carbs and sugary foods. If gum bleeding fails to improve within seven to 10 days, visit the dentist. You may need dental cleaning to remove plaque buildup.
 

For more on how to stop bleeding gums, visit Eagle Gate Dental at our Salt Lake City, Utah office. Call 801-781-5300 to schedule an appointment today.