Why Do Gums Bleed, and How Can You Stop It Naturally? - #15227
I’ve been noticing bleeding gums whenever I brush my teeth, and I’m not sure why this is happening. What causes bleeding gums, and is it always a sign of gum disease, or can it be due to something else? I read that gingivitis, or early-stage gum inflammation, is a common reason for bleeding gums. But can factors like poor diet, vitamin deficiencies, or hormonal changes also play a role? Are there any natural remedies or Ayurvedic treatments that help strengthen gum health? I’ve heard that oil pulling with coconut oil, using neem toothpaste, and rinsing with salt water can help—do these methods actually work? If anyone has experienced bleeding gums, what helped improve them? Did changing your brushing technique or using herbal remedies make a difference?
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Doctors’ responses
Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis, but they can also result from poor digestion, vitamin C deficiency, hormonal imbalances, or excess Pitta dosha, which causes heat and inflammation in the gums. Ayurveda recommends oil pulling with sesame or coconut oil to reduce bacteria and strengthen gums, brushing with herbal tooth powders containing neem, clove, and licorice, and rinsing with warm salt water to reduce swelling. Consuming Amla (rich in vitamin C), avoiding excessive spicy and acidic foods, and gently massaging gums with Triphala churna mixed with honey can also help. Improving digestion and balancing Pitta through cooling herbs like coriander and aloe vera may prevent recurrence.
Bleeding gums can be frustrating, right? You’re on the right track with the gingivitis thing. It sure is one of the main reasons for bleedin’ gums. But hey, there’s more to it! Yeah, poor diet, vitamin deficiencies (think vitamin C or K), and hormonal swings can definitely join the party, adding their own twist to the issue.
Now, speaking of Ayurvedic remedies, you’ve hit some pretty solid points already. Your mention of oil pulling is spot on—coconut oil’s got this magic touch. Try swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for about 10-15 minutes, in the morning on an empty stomach. It can help remove toxins and improve overall oral health.
Neem is like that old wise friend in Ayurveda. Using a neem-based toothpaste can really help. Its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties can enhance gum health and reduce bleedin’. And yes, rinsing with warm salt water is a classic—it can reduce inflammation and fight off infection. Just dissolve half a teaspoon of sea salt in a cup of warm water, swish it around, and spit it out two or three times daily.
Something you might wanna try is turmeric paste. Make a paste with a bit of turmeric powder and water. Apply it on your gums, leave it for a few minutes, and rinse. It’s anti-inflammatory and can soothe the gums.
Oh, and don’t forget—tooth brushing technique matters! Use a soft-bristle brush and don’t brush too aggressively. Flashy mileage in gum health often comes from just a little gentle care.
Small shifts in diet can do wonders too, eat foods high in vitamin C, like citrus fruits, and leafy greens for vitamin K. Balance your Pitta dosha by avoiding overly hot/spicy foods, which can sometimes make the problem worse.
But, if your gums keep bleeding or get worse, definitely don’t wait. Get in touch with a dentist, just to ensure there’s nothing sneaky going on that needs immediate attention. What works for someone else might not be your solution—but bit by bit, you could find what suits you. Good luck!

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