Gingival Bleeding in Children: Causes and Treatments Volume 2 - Issue 3

Mohammed Karimi DMD*

• Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Iran

Received:December 19, 2018   Published: January 09, 2019

*Corresponding author:Mohammed Karimi, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Iran

DOI: 10.32474/IPDOAJ.2019.02.000138

Abstract PDF

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Opinion

Some parents may be confronted with gingival bleeding of their children, but they feel indifferent to it because they feel that this is normal. They should know that there are several reasons for it, but the most important is the” periodontal disease”. Gingival bleeding is one of the common symptoms of periodontal disease. Gingival bleeding is often due to the lack of proper removal of plaque from the teeth in the gum line, which leads to gingival inflammation. However, bleeding in the gums may be associated with serious illnesses, such as leukemia and disruption of coagulation and platelet disorders. In these conditions, it is usually easy to bleed or bruise anywhere in the body. In the following, some common causes, risk factors, and methods for treating gingival bleeding and time of referral to the dentist will be presented.

Causes

The emergence of these causes can be due to systemic and local factors.

Injury and Trauma

Gingival bleeding may be caused by traumatic injury of teeth or gingival laceration, teeth cleaning by toothpicks or sharp instruments and even foreign objects, inappropriate brushing, and flossing. The injury may also occur due to stimulation of acids and chemicals in food, drinking beverages, side effects of medicines and dental bleaching materials [1].

Periodontal Disease

If a child’s’ gums are easily bleeding or red, swollen and sensitive, then they may have periodontal disease. It can be caused by several factors but is often associated with poor oral and dental health [1]. This disease has two stages:

a) Gingival Inflammation: One of the main causes of gingival bleeding is the formation of plaque on the gum line. This causes inflammation and gums swelling.

b) Periodontitis: Plaques gradually become hardened and become massive. This causes more bleeding and can lead to a more advanced type of gum and bone disease called periodontitis.

Toothbrush

New toothbrushes with hard bristles can sometimes cause bleeding of the gums. If a new toothbrush has recently been selected, its bristle, hardness, and rigidity should be controlled. Parents should always choose soft toothbrushes for their children. These kinds of toothbrushes like the hard one does the same job and clean the children teeth. Interestingly, they do not cause too much pressure on the gums and teeth like the hard one. Furthermore, children should not brush their teeth with great pressure because it might lead to bleeding and damage to the sensitive gums. If the bristles are bent or frayed, kids may be pressing too hard on their gums resulting in trauma to the gingiva.

Flossing the Teeth

If the kid has recently started to use dental floss, there may be a minor bleeding. This is since the gingival sulcus area is extremely sensitive and can easily be damaged by inappropriate way of flossing. Gingival bleeding usually disappears in less than a week. If the child continues to have gingival bleeding for more than a week after starting dental flossing, she should be taken to the dentist because it may indicate a more severe condition that requires treatment.

Hematological Disorders and Coagulopathies

Gingival bleeding can also occur due to abnormalities in blood such as hemophilia, leukemia, and disruptions of coagulation in the blood [1-5].

Systemic Disorders

Gingival bleeding may also be caused by systemic disorders such as liver, kidney and cardiovascular disorders, vascular disease, and diabetes [1,6-8].

Medications and Treatments

Gingival bleeding can also be due to the side effects of some medications such as blood thinners (Aspirin and Heparin) and pain medications. These medications decrease the blood’s ability to clot, which can lead to easier bleeding. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also lead to bleeding gums. Overgrowth of gingiva can be caused by the use of Phenytoin, Cyclosporine, and Nefidipine [1,11].

Other Reasons

The following can affect the incidence of gingival bleeding:

a) Tooth infection

b) Infection of the gums [1,9]

c) Scurvy [1,12]

d) Vitamin K deficiency

Associated Risk Factors

The main cause of periodontal disease is the plaque, but other factors affect the health of child’s gums.

Family History

Many children have a genetic predisposition to gum disease. Genetic testing can be done to detect such a problem early before appearing the symptoms of gum disease. By doing this, Preventive measures can help keep the teeth in good condition.

Unbalanced Diet

Consuming a diet that does not have the necessary nutrients can undermine the immune system and disrupt the body’s ability to cope with infections. Since periodontal disease often starts with an infection, a weak diet can exacerbate the disease. In addition, obese children are more likely to develop periodontal disease [1,9].

Symptoms that may Appear with Bleeding Gums

Gingival bleeding may be accompanied by other symptoms that affect the area of the gum, including:

a) Bad Breath

b) Bright red or reddish gums

c) The sensitivity of the gums to the touch

d) Tooth loss or tooth mobility

e) Pain or sore in the mouth

f) Problem using orthodontic tool

g) Gingival recessions

h) Gingival inflammation

Symptoms that may Indicate a Serious Problem

In some cases, gingival bleeding may be accompanied by other symptoms that indicate a serious illness and should be investigated promptly. Symptoms that the child may have with gum bleeding include:

a) Bleeding anywhere else in the body

b) Lethargy or altering consciousness or unconsciousness

c) High fever

d) Teeth loss without any reasons

Treatments

Scaling

If the child has a mild type of gingivitis, it can be treated with a professional scaling and applying the proper oral hygiene instructions. But if the condition has worsened, the dentist may use necessary different treatment approaches for children including scaling, application of mouthwash, antibiotic or other medications [10].

Brushing Teeth Gently

Parents must assure that children brush their teeth correctly. Some kids brush their teeth with too much pressure or false method of brushing, which leads to gum injuries and make their gums prone to infections.

Regular Use of Dental Floss

To prevent gum problems, remind children that regular use of dental floss is important. Flossing takes only a few minutes, but it does make sure the gums are kept healthy.

Having a Balanced Diet

A diet which is rich in vitamin C and calcium can be an effective way to reduce the risk of developing gum disease.

Drinking Plenty of Water

Let children Get used to drinking lots of water, especially after eating anything. This prevents food particles from sticking to the teeth and prevents the formation of plaque on the tooth surfaces.

Consumption of Food Containing Vitamin C

Eating high-quality fruits containing vitamin C prevents gum problems, such as gingivitis. Fruits rich in vitamin C include oranges, lemons, and etc. Parents can also give their children vitamin C supplements. Raw vegetables are also very effective in providing the nutrients needed by the body. In addition, chewing raw vegetables helps improve blood circulation in the gum and prevents gingival bleeding.

Gargle Salt Water

This method is one of the easiest home remedies available to prevent gum bleeding. Unfortunately, most children are unwilling to do this, and it is unpleasant for them. Instead, for this category of children, it is recommended to use an especial kid’s mouthwash.

When Should Medical Help be Sought?

In the following circumstances, the parents should refer to the dental office for further evaluations and examinations.

a) A child with chronic bleeding gum.

b) Gingival bleeding continues even after treatment.

c) Evidence of other unexplained signs and symptoms along with bleeding gums.

d) Teeth loss without any reasons.

e) Bleeding anywhere else in the body.

References

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