In the course of life, minor oral symptoms can occur which become noticeable. One of these is bleeding of the gums. Here we look at what can cause this, and discuss four supplemental vitamins and nutrients which can help prevent the occurrence of bleeding gums.
Bleeding Gums: Should You Be Concerned?
Most of us could recall experiencing minor gum bleeding at some point, even if you are in great health. When the gums bleed, it can be the result of one (or more) of many things. When this happens, it’s always important to determine the cause. Bleeding gums result from poor dental hygiene, but they can also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.
Practicing good dental hygiene is essential to avoid bleeding gums. Brushing and flossing removes plaque from teeth, which is essential in order to prevent both gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque builds up if you don’t floss, and this is called gingivitis. It is the reason that gums often bleed when you floss for the first time after a flossing hiatus.
There are more severe causes of gum bleeding as well. Unmitigated gingivitis can worsen to periodontitis, which is an infection of the gums and supporting tissues.
Vitamin deficiencies are also a common cause for bleeding gums. Gum bleeding could also be the result of an underlying condition such as diabetes or a blood disorder; It is in these cases that medical treatment is necessary to address this symptom.
Supplements for Healthy Gums
Nutrition bears on both oral hygiene, and gum health specifically. Here are four of the best supplements that could support the health of your gums and reduce gum bleeding:
Vitamin C deficiency is a frequent causal factor for gum bleeding. Conversely, supplementing with vitamin C has been shown to reduce gum bleeding, including in those with gingivitis and in those with diabetes. Vitamin C is important because it contributes to the body’s use of collagen for structural health, including within the gums. Anyone low or deficient in vitamin C is more likely to experience gum bleeding and other periodontal disease.
Vitamin K deficiency is linked to gum bleeding. Supplementing with vitamin K can reduce inflammation in the gum and protect them from oxidative damage, and this can reduce gum bleeding. Vitamin K works alongside calcium to keep bones and other tissues strong, including the gums.
Omega 3 fatty acids, contained in a fish oil supplement, have strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can fight periodontal disease, and reduce gum bleeding. Studies show that supplementing with omega-3s actually improves connective tissue attachment in the mouth, which contributes to reduced gum bleeding and other complications.
Vitamin E has properties that support the gums such that supplementing with it could reduce gum bleeding. The primary way it does so is through its antioxidant properties, which reduce factors that lead to gum and tooth decay. Supplementing with vitamin E can help stop gum bleeding, and help with other periodontal disease as well.
If you experience gum bleeding on occasion or in a minor way, then supplementing your nutrient intake could make a significant difference. It’s recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any of these for the first time.