Introduction
There can be a variety of causes for bleeding gums. By far the most common reason for such bleeding in the gum area is the presence of gingivitis. Gingivitis is usually caused by inadequate or careless oral hygiene.
Pathogens living in the oral cavity, especially bacteria, can get into the depths of the mouth through the smallest gaps between the tooth and the gums if insufficient dental care is taken. Below the gum line, these pathogens secrete metabolic products and thereby increasingly provoke the tissue, which reacts with a local inflammation. The organism reacts to this stimulus by releasing specific inflammation mediators and increasing tissue blood flow.
As a result, there is increased immigration of blood cells (especially leukocytes). Over a longer period of time, this process promotes the formation of deep gum pockets, into which pathogens can now migrate even more easily. Gingivitis, the first and most important symptom of which is bleeding gums, is one of the most widespread diseases. From the age of about 40 years, on average every third patient suffers from gingivitis.
Causes of gum bleeding
Although gum inflammation is the main cause of gum bleeding, there are a number of other factors that can cause it. This might be of interest to you: Symptoms of gingivitis Bleeding in the area of the gums can also be caused by mechanical irritation. Too much pressure when brushing your teeth or a brush that is too hard damages the gums and, in addition to triggering bleeding, can even lead to gingival recession.
Many patients therefore often notice this bleeding after brushing their teeth. When choosing the ideal toothbrush, care should be taken to purchase a medium strength brush if possible to protect the gums. In addition, various infections (such as bleeding gums as a sign of HIV infection) can contribute to the development of bleeding gums. The gums (the ginigiva) can also react to the hormonal changes during pregnancy through strong inflammatory processes. Gum bleeding can also occur in these cases.