Whitehall Children’s Dentist Discusses Bleeding Gums

When your child comes to you bleeding, your natural instinct is to stop the bleeding as quickly as possible. Your Whitehall children’s dentist Dr. Mujica feels the same if your child’s gums are bleeding. However, in this case it is particularly important to determine the cause of bleeding. Read on to learn more about some of the common causes of bleeding gums in children.

Bleeding Gums: Is Your Child Using a New Toothbrush?

Sometimes, a new toothbrush can cause a child’s gums to bleed, especially if the bristles are hard. Check the package to see what type of bristles the brush has. Both children and adults should only use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Those hard bristles may feel like they’re doing a better job of cleaning, but in fact you’re only increasing the risk of bleeding gums as well as scratched tooth enamel.

Also, make sure your child isn’t using too much pressure when he or she brushes. Just a light touch when brushing will do.

Bleeding Gums: New Medication?

If you child has recently started taking a new medication, check the side effects. There are some medicines that can cause gum inflammation and increased sensitivity. Both can make your child’s gums more likely to bleed. In this case, your child will need to stick to their medication schedule, but they’ll also need to be extra gentle when they brush so they don’t irritate gum tissue.

Bleeding Gums: Has Your Child Begun to Floss?

When children first begin to floss their teeth regularly, some minor bleeding can be expected. Gum tissue can be quite sensitive, especially along the line where your child’s gums meet their teeth. Instruct your child to floss gently and slowly so they are less likely to irritate that gum tissue. In any case, bleeding due to flossing usually goes away after a week or so. If not, then schedule an appointment with the children’s dentist in Whitehall to make sure there isn’t a more serious problem.

Bleeding Gums: Is it Gum Disease?

Although gum disease is much more prevalent among older adults, it is not unheard of among children. If you notice that your child’s gums are red and swollen and they have a tendency to bleed, then the culprit may be gum disease. More often than not, gum disease begins in children because of poor oral hygiene that leads to plaque buildup. Encourage your children to brush for two minutes at least twice a day and to floss once a day. Also, schedule regular dental cleanings and exams for your children with Whitehall children’s dentist Dr. Mujica at All Kids Pediatric Dentistry.

Call Our Office Today

If your child’s gums are bleeding, schedule a visit with Dr. Mujica and he staff today.