You’re performing your usual oral hygiene routine when you look down and notice blood on your sink… what do you do?
Gum bleeding is a common concern among patients and the initial sign of a gum problem. This problem is the result of gum infection and poor oral hygiene. Generally, gum bleeding will occur when you are brushing your teeth or eating raw food. If bleeding gums is accompanied by swollen gums and bad breath, then you may have gingivitis. When this occurs, you should visit your dental clinic in Brandon, MB. Your dentist can perform an oral examination to determine if you have gingivitis.
Your gums may bleed for a variety of different reasons; these include:
• Aggressive brushing
• Vitamin deficiency
• Hormonal changes
• Blood Thinners
Diabetes and heart disease can also lead to gum issues.
If you’re still not sure what gingivitis is, essentially it is a mild yet common form of gum disease or periodontal disease. When gingivitis is not properly addressed, it can advance into periodontitis, and symptoms will worsen.
Consequences of periodontitis include:
• Deep pockets between your teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Tooth loss
Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible and can be cured. In addition to seeking treatment from your Dentist in Brandon, MB there are also simple and effective home remedies available. Continue reading to learn how you can use these home remedies to heal your bleeding gums.
Citrus Fruits
What better way to treat bleeding gums than eating delicious and nutritious fruit? As mentioned above, vitamin deficiency can cause gum disease, specifically vitamin C deficiency. If you’re trying to find ways to incorporate more vitamin C into your diet, look no further. Fruits such as oranges, pomegranate, and lemon are the best source of vitamin C.
Organic Honey
You might add honey to your tea or oatmeal, but have you considered using it for your bleeding gums? Honey has antibacterial properties, and although it contains sugar, which is harmful to our teeth, it is also a great source of vitamins and minerals. You can massage your teeth with organic honey twice per day to prevent gum problems.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has several medicinal properties and in recent times has been used to make beverages. Do you know, one mineral property found in aloe vera can eliminate bacteria responsible for gingivitis, thereby reducing gum bleeding? In addition, aloe vera aids in healing. So how can you benefit from this powerful plant? Simply massage aloe vera gel or pulp on your gums.
Salt
Let’s be honest; there is probably a salt shaker sitting on your kitchen table as you read this. Well, the good news is, salt can do more for you than just flavouring your food. Yes, that’ right, adding some salt into lukewarm water and using this solution as a mouthwash can benefit your gums. The saline solution helps to improve blood circulation and reduces gum swelling. Who would have thought that this quick and easy recipe could lead to better oral hygiene?
Baking Soda
This is another ingredient you most likely have somewhere in your kitchen. If not, it is readily available at your nearest grocery store. Baking soda can be used to make a paste, which helps in reducing bleeding gums. All you need to do is combine baking soda with water and rub the paste on your teeth and gums.
Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is also filled with antibacterial properties which assist in treating gum problems. The key here is to purchase cranberry juice that is labeled “100% juice” rather than cranberry juice cocktail.
Clove Oil
This type of oil reduces gum inflammation and aids in stopping gum bleeding. Simply pour a small amount and apply it topically to your gums. Alternatively, you can chew on a clove instead, which produces a burning sensation followed by relief.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil also known as EVOO contains Oleic acid and flavonoids. These serve to reduce gum problems and act as antioxidants. In fact, extra virgin olive oil is one of the most effective ways to solve gum bleeding. To benefit from this technique, add a few drops into your water or on your toothbrush.
Fun fact, olive oil can be used for oil pulling. Oil pulling is an ancient remedy that can improve your oral health and prevent oral issues. Over the years, it has become increasingly popular, and many people swear by it.