5 effective tips to treat bleeding gums
31.1.2024
Translation: Eva Francis
Do you spit out pink foam after brushing your teeth? Find out how to treat bleeding gums and keep your gums healthy.
There are many possible causes (link in German) of bleeding gums, ranging from infrequent cleaning to vitamin C deficiency or blood-thinning medication. Your gums can even get inflamed, turning them dark red, painful and swollen.
Gum health is essential
You need to look after your gums as well as your teeth. After all, healthy gums protect your tooth roots from pathogens and ensure that your teeth are firmly attached. As my dentist told me, receding gums never grow back. At worst, your teeth can become so loose that they eventually fall out. Here are five tips to keep your gums healthy.
1. Massage the spaces between your teeth
I use these wooden inter dental sticks made by Elmex, which my dentist recommended to me. They’re supposed to strengthen your gums. And they really do! Since I’ve been using them every day, my gums have become much firmer.
Carefully slide the wooden stick in between two teeth on top of the gums
and pull it out again. Work your way through the spaces between all your teeth. As a side effect, you get a nice little gum massage.
Source: Maike Jensen
Source: Maike Jensen
2. Use a soft toothbrush
If you apply too much pressure or brush your teeth with bristles that are too hard, you can literally brush away your gums. Use a soft toothbrush, such as the Profi Gentle Extra Soft made by Swissdent. As the Swiss manufacturer promises, this model cleans gently, protects sensitive gums and prevents receding gums.
Manual toothbrush
Quantity discount
CHF7.65 per piece for 3 units
Swissdent PROFI Gentle Toothbrush Extra Soft White (1 pc)
Extra soft, 1 x
3. Nibble on vegetables
The fibres of carrots and celery (link in German) act like a facial scrub for teeth and gums, promoting blood circulation in your gums and removing plaque from your teeth. Broccoli and spinach are important sources of vitamin C, which also benefits your gums.
4. Avoid unhealthy food
Sugars in food and drinks play a major role in the development of dental caries. Eating a lot of sugar and not cleaning your teeth enough can lead to plaque (link in German). In time, the plaque can harden into tartar, lead to inflammation and attack the enamel and gums. Smoking also promotes bleeding gums, as it constricts blood vessels and causes irritation.
5. Gargle chamomile or sage tea
Chamomile and sage have anti-inflammatory properties. Gargle with cold chamomile or sage tea several times a day to disinfect and soothe the affected areas in your mouth.
Header image: NAN 2535/Shutterstock
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