Common Causes for Gum Bleeding in Children

Bleeding gums in toddlers represent an early warning sign of poor oral hygiene, unhealthy diets, and other dental issues. Generally, bleeding gums are the signs of the initial stage of gum disease or gingivitis. In kids, bleeding gums are caused by improper brushing and to solve this problem most dentist recommend that children and adults brush their teeth twice a day. When the teeth aren’t brushed properly, then the gums become swollen and inflamed because plaque stays on the teeth too long. Regular brushing and flossing is essential to remove plaque and make your gums healthier.

Possible Causes of Gum Bleeding in Children

Bad Flossing Habit

According to the American Dental Association, bleeding in gums is also caused by irregular flossing. This means, if your child skipped his regular flossing routine two or three days, then there may be some bleeding when he starts to floss again. So, assist your child in flossing until he is ten years old and encourage them to brush twice a day to prevent gum diseases. In some cases, vigorous brushing and flossing can also lead to bleeding in gum. Use soft-bristled tooth-brushes and spend two minutes in brushing every tooth surface and tongue for a healthy mouth.

Unhealthy Diet

Taking in more sweet and starchy foods can cause plaque buildup on teeth and leads to gum bleeding. Teach your children to eat healthy food and a balanced diet that helps them to stop bleeding gums and prevent gum disease.

Gum Disease

The two common types of gum diseases are chronic gingivitis and periodontitis and these can cause bleeding in gum. Scheduling regular dental checkups with your pediatric dentist in St. Louis helps you to determine the root cause for bleeding in your gum.

Symptoms for Bleeding Gums

The following are the symptoms of bleeding gums,

• Tenderness in Gum
• Mouth sores
• Mouth ulcers
• Swollen gums

Other Causes for Bleeding Gums

• Hard brushing
• Vitamin K deficiency
• Bleeding disorders

Tips to Prevent Bleeding in Gums

• Use a soft-bristled tooth brush to brush gently along the gum line
• Brush twice daily
• Floss daily to remove the tiny food particles trapped between your teeth
• Increase the intake of Vitamin C by adding more foods and vegetables to your child’s diet plan
• Regular dental check-up with your St. Louis pediatric dentist helps you to identify the main reason behind bleeding gums
• Create a friendly relationship between your child and dentist

Bleeding gums are common in toddlers and adults but neglecting the issue at the early stage can lead to severe oral disease. So, pay attention to the problem before it becomes too late.

The author is a leading pediatric dentist in St. Louis and enjoys creating a dental home that will lead to a lifetime of dental health and happiness. Visit http://www.stlkidsdentistry.com for more information.