If your gums are sore and bleeding, you likely have some form of gum disease, though you may simply be brushing or flossing too hard. Gum diseases, or periodontal diseases, range from mild gingivitis to a severe form known as periodontitis. Vitamins and herbal tonics may be beneficial in reducing soreness or preventing gum disease.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays several roles in maintaining healthy, pain-free gyms. A lack of vitamin C may result in mouth ulcers, which cause bleeding gums. Vitamin C is crucial for the production of collagen, a building block for gums and other body tissues, according to Mary Dan Eades, M.D. Dr. Eades is the medical director of the Arkansas Center for Health and Weight Control. Vitamin C strengthens weak gum tissue and increases the resistance of gum tissue to penetration. Dr. Eades recommends taking vitamin C in two ways. Twice a day you can mix crystalline vitamin C into a sugar-free drink that you swish around in your mouth for a minute before swallowing; or you can take one or two 500 mg slow-release vitamin C capsules each morning or evening.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is a herb you can use to relieve sore gums. One option is to mix goldenseal into a mouthwash to treat gums, throat or mouth. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends mixing 1/4 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. goldenseal powder to make a mouthwash. Rinse in your mouth and then spit the mixture out. You can also take goldenseal in capsule or tablet form. Adult dosages for goldenseal are 500 to 1,000 mg up to three times a day, but it is not recommended for children, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Goldenseal is generally safe for adults for short-term use, but children taking it should be under medical supervision. Potential side effects include nausea and vomiting.
Vitamin K
A vitamin K deficiency, although rare, can cause bleeding gums. This deficiency is rare because vitamin K is found in leafy green foods and also because the bacteria in your intestines are able to make it. Your doctor can advise you if you are at risk for a vitamin K deficiency. If not corrected, bleeding gums can lead to periodontitis. Other possible causes include improper flossing, brushing too hard, a bleeding disorder, an infection, scurvy, use of blood thinners and leukemia.
Beneficial Foods
According to the American Dental Association, ADA, eating a balanced diet helps prevent periodontal disease. Eat a variety of foods from the different food groups, including breads and cereals, fruits, vegetables, dairy products and meats. The ADA also recommends brushing twice a day, regular dental checkups and cleaning between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners.
References
- Alhambra Dental; Vitamin C Strengthens Gums; John C. Chao, D.D.S., F.A.G.D.
- DentalDean.com: Bleeding Gums: Learn to Identify and Treat Your Situation Before It Gets Worse!
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Goldenseal
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Goldenseal
- MedlinePlus: Bleeding Gums
- American Dental Association: Disease, Gum (Periodontal Disease)
