Bleeding gingiva, is one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of gingival disease. Whether caused by gingivitis or other systemic conditions, addressing bleeding gums promptly is essential for maintaining overall oral health.

Causes of Gingival Bleeding

Several factors contribute to gingival bleeding, ranging from localized issues to systemic health conditions. The most common cause is gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease characterized by inflammation, redness, and irritation of the gums. Below are some primary causes:

Local Causes

1. Gingivitis: One of the leading causes of gingival bleeding, gingivitis occurs due to the buildup of plaque around the gumline. Gingivitis and bleeding gums are typically the first indicators of poor oral hygiene.

2. Periodontitis: Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe gum disease that can lead to gum recession, tooth loss, and worsening of gingival bleeding.

3. Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG): This severe bacterial infection results in painful ulcers, bleeding, and tissue death of gingiva.

4. Mechanical Injury: Overly aggressive brushing or flossing can cause injury to the gingiva, leading to temporary gingival bleeding.

5. Thermal or Chemical Injury: Exposure to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals can damage gingival tissue and cause bleeding.

1. Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, puberty, and oral contraceptive use can cause hormone fluctuations that make the gingiva more sensitive and prone to bleeding.

2. Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to experience gingivitis due to impaired immune function and healing processes.

3. Medications: Blood-thinning medications like aspirin, heparin, and warfarin can increase the risk of gingival bleeding by reducing clotting formation.

4. Bleeding Disorders: Conditions such as hemophilia, thrombocytopenia, and leukemia can cause spontaneous gingivitis and gingival bleeding.

5. Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of vitamin C (scurvy) and other essential nutrients can lead to weakened gingival tissue and increased susceptibility to bleeding.

The most reliable method to assess gingival bleeding is bleeding on probing (BOP).  Gently running a periodontal probe along the gumline determines bleeding. It typically takes 30 to 60 seconds for bleeding to become apparent after probing. This objective test is critical for diagnosing periodontal disease and assessing its severity.

Treatment for Bleeding Gingiva

1. Improved Oral Hygiene: Consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups can help prevent and treat gingivitis. Using the best toothpaste for bleeding gingiva, which contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients, is also recommended. 

2. Professional Dental Cleaning: If plaque buildup is the cause, a professional dental cleaning will remove tartar and bacteria from beneath the gumline, helping to reduce inflammation and bleeding. 

3. Scaling and Root Planing: For more severe cases like periodontitis, deep cleaning methods such as scaling and root planing are necessary to remove plaque and tartar from the roots of the teeth. 

4. Medications and Rinses: Antibacterial mouth rinses or prescription medications may be used to treat infections that cause gingival bleeding. 

5. Treatment of Systemic Conditions: If the bleeding is linked to a systemic health condition like leukemia or diabetes, addressing the root cause through proper medical treatment is essential for managing health og the gingiva.