When it comes to dental health, a lot of people only focus on their teeth and forget about their gums.  Most of the time, Bleeding Gums can be the sign of a gum disease, but this is not always the case.  It is more likely that you have a gum disease if the bleeding is ongoing and frequent.  Gums can bleed if they are not properly taken care of.  In fact, more than 75% of adults, who are over the age of 35, in America develop gum disease. 

The main symptom is that your gums will bleed.  The gums will often be inflamed or more red than usual.  It is important to take action and not ignore the Bleeding Gums, as it can develop into a more severe gum disease. 

• Bleeding Gums
• Swollen/Inflamed Gums
• Formation of Deep Pockets between Teeth
• Losing or Shifting Teeth
• Receding Gums
• Gums that Bleed during Tooth Brushing
• Persistent Bad Breath

The primary cause of Bleeding gums is the build-up of plaque at the gum line, which can lead to Gingivitus.  If the plaque is left untreated, it hardens into tartar.  If this happens then the gums can bleed more and a more serious gum disease can develop.  When you have Gingivitus or a more serious gum disease, the bacteria on the teeth release toxic substances into your gums, which makes them swollen or inflamed and more likely to bleed. 

• Brushing Too Hard
• A Bleeding Disorder
• Infection (either tooth or gum related)
• Ill-fitting Dentures (or other dental appliances)
• Use of Blood Thinners
• Scurvy
• Vitamin K Deficiency
• Poor Oral Hygiene

• Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush is best.  If you can brush after you eat a meal that is optimal.  If you already have inflamed or bleeding gums, avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol because that will only irritate your gums.
• If you have been diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency, getting those vitamins via herbal supplements or raw foods may possibly stop the bleeding.  Eliminating meat, dairy, alcohol, smoking (if you are a smoker then this can irritate gums), salt, sugar, and processed foods from your diet is always a good idea.  Focus on what raw foods, nuts, or seeds give you the vitamins you need.  Make sure you are getting lots of vitamin C and calcium in your diet.
• It's important to drink lots of water, especially after a meal.  The water can help wash away the bacteria, making it less likely to form into plaque.  It's suggested to consume eight 8oz. glasses of water each day.  A great way to remember how much water to drink is to halve your body weight and drink it in ounces of water per day. This means that if you weigh 150lbs, your water intake should be 75oz. daily.
• Stress can also be linked to Bleeding Gums.  You can help decrease your stress levels by taking magnesium or doing relaxing exercises such as yoga, Tai Chi, or meditation.  When your body is relieved of stress it makes it easier for it to fight off infections or calm and inflamed area.

• Cloves
• Chamomile or Calendula Tea
• Wheatgrass juice
• Peppermint and Sage Oil
• Citrus Fruit
• Raw Nuts
• Green Leafy Vegetables