Other causes
One of the most common reasons for gum bleeding is inflammation of the periodontium (periodontitis). In addition, stress, fluctuations in hormone balance and traumatic events can lead to gum bleeding. Taking various medicines can also damage the gums and provoke bleeding.
The drugs relevant in this context include antiepileptic drugs (around half of patients are affected while taking them), immunosuppressive drugs (especially Ciclospoprin A), antihypertensive drugs such as nifedipine and verapamil, and hormonal contraceptives. Other classic triggers of gum bleeding are metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and infections with the herpes, Epstein-Barr or cytomegalovirus. Gum bleeding can also be triggered by a considerable lack of iron.
Nowadays, a deficiency alone rarely leads to gum bleeding within Europe. Patients suffering from anorexia have a special position in this respect, as they usually suffer from a severe lack of proteins, vitamins, minerals and above all iron. Prolonged stress is also a cause of gum inflammation and bleeding. Due to the increased release of the tissue hormone cortisol during stressful times, the immune system is further weakened and the gums are more susceptible to infestation by pathogens, which can lead to inflammation and thus to gum bleeding.
Inflammation as a reason for bleeding gums
The majority of affected patients notice bleeding of the gums due to reddish deposits on food or bloody toothpaste foam after brushing their teeth. However, bleeding gums themselves do not represent a disease in their own right. Rather, it is considered a symptom of a variety of inflammatory diseases within the oral cavity.As a component of the so-called periodontium, the gums are essential for the chewing process.
Histologically it consists of several cell layers lying on top of each other. Especially the uppermost layer of the gums has flat, irregularly shaped cells and cannot be reproduced by the organism. If this cell layer is damaged, for example by rough contact, gum bleeding occurs.
Gum bleeding due to lack of oral hygiene
In many cases, bleeding gums are an indication of poor oral hygiene. It is precisely in those places that are difficult or impossible to reach with the bristles of a toothbrush that food residues are deposited and serve as a breeding ground for bacterial pathogens. In the long run, this leads to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and to the development of bleeding gums.
In addition to poor oral hygiene, there are many other causes that can cause gum bleeding. You can find tips for optimal oral hygiene in our article Oral hygiene.
