Bleeding gum is common and one may notice it after brushing their teeth or flossing. Bleeding gum is most commonly caused due to the build-up of tartar or plaque, which irritates the lining of the sensitive gums causing it to bleed.
Other causes of bleeding gums include using dental floss improperly, using a hard or worn toothbrush, not brushing your teeth regularly, gingivitis and taking certain medicines.
1. Ice pack
Applying an ice pack on the bleeding gums can soothe minor mouth injuries, such as a cut or scrape and it will help reduce pain and swelling.
2. Salt water rinse
Salt contains anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that reduce the pain and swelling. Rinsing the mouth with salt water will help kill the harmful bacteria that is causing your gums to bleed [2].
3. Manuka honey
Manuka honey has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties that can combat bacterial infections caused by gingivitis. It will furthermore help lower the pain and swelling of the gums [3].
4. Green tea
Drinking green tea can reduce the severity of bleeding gums. It is due to the presence of a natural antioxidant called catechin in green tea that can reduce the body’s inflammatory response to the bacteria in the mouth [4].
5. Turmeric
Turmeric contains a polyphenol compound called curcumin, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can lower the pain and inflammation caused by bleeding gums [5].
6. Oil pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing coconut oil in the mouth for 10 to 15 minutes. This process draws out bacteria that live in the mouth. Coconut oil contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties which are good for treating bleeding gums and help prevent the recurrence of plaque in the mouth [6].
7. Eat crunchy vegetables
Consuming crunchy veggies such as carrots and celery can help reduce the plaque in your teeth, may be because they are rich in fibre and water that can help keep your teeth clean. The crunchiness can eliminate food residue from the teeth, thereby preventing gum problems.
8. Milk
Milk is a good source of calcium that can help strengthen your teeth and gums and stop bleeding. Drink a glass of cold milk daily to reduce and soothe the inflammation caused by bleeding gums.
9. Clove oil
Clove oil contains a compound called eugenol that possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent plaque and lower inflammation.
10. Cinnamon oil
The antibacterial activity of cinnamon oil has the potent ability to fight against bacteria that causes dental plaque [7].
11. Consume green leafy veggies
Eat green leafy vegetables such as lettuce, spinach and kale as they are high in vitamin K. Vitamin K helps in blood clotting and people who are low in vitamin K have more bleeding than usual.
12. Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash
Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial properties that may help treat gum disease by removing plaque and stopping the bleeding of the gums.
13. Aloe vera
The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera can help lower inflammation and plaque-induced gingivitis, which is one of the causes of bleeding gums [9].