How To Treat & Prevent Bleeding Gums

WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN YOU HAVE BLEEDING GUMS?

If your gums bleed when you brush, you may have gum disease and it could lead to bad breath, then inflamed, receding gums and, eventually tooth loss.

Whether you see blood in the sink when you brush occasionally or every day, you should never ignore bleeding gums.

REASONS FOR BLEEDING GUMS

Bleeding gums tend to be caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly builds up around, on and in between your teeth. If plaque bacteria is not removed, it can irritate the gums, leading to change in colour, bleeding and inflammation.

However, there are also a number of other reasons for bleeding gums. These include over-brushing teeth or brushing too hard, a new toothbrush or flossing routine, and some medications.

HOW DO I STOP BLEEDING GUMS?

Regardless of what you think might be the cause of your bleeding gums, the best thing to do is speak to your dentist as soon as possible. They can investigate your symptoms and then advise on the best way to stop your bleeding gums.

There are also a number of simple steps you may wish to consider when it comes to treating bleeding gums – changes to your oral health routine that could help stop the problem becoming more serious. To work effectively, these steps should be followed every day, rather than just on occasions that you notice blood when you spit:

Brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes with a toothpaste like Corsodyl Complete Protection Toothpaste. When used twice a day, Corsodyl Complete Protection Toothpaste is 4x more effective* than a regular toothpaste at removing the main cause of bleeding gums.
Use a manual or electric toothbrush with a small head and soft round bristles, paying particular attention to ensure you clean all the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line.
Floss or use interdental brushes to remove plaque from hard to reach areas, like in between your teeth.
Use a short-term mouthwash such as Corsodyl Treatment Mouthwash, which contains chlorhexidine digluconate, which is clinically proven to be effective against bleeding gums, gum irritation and gum inflammation.
Visit your dentist regularly as they may spot problems with your gums before you have any symptoms. If you do experience your gums bleeding, report it promptly so your dentist can help you treat it before it becomes more serious.

_{*With twice daily brushing. Contact mystory.gb@haleon.com for verification}