What Deficiency Causes Bleeding Gums? A Clay Road Houston Guide
If your gums bleed and you are doing everything right at the brush and floss, you might wonder whether something is missing from your diet. Patients across Northwest Houston ask our Clay Road team this question.
Short Answer
Two vitamin deficiencies are linked to bleeding gums: vitamin C deficiency, which causes scurvy, and vitamin K deficiency. Both appear on MedlinePlus's list of causes. Plaque and gingivitis are still more common, so a dental exam comes first, and a blood test can confirm a deficiency.
Key Takeaways
- Low vitamin C (scurvy) and low vitamin K are both linked to bleeding gums.
- Plaque and gingivitis are common causes too, so do not assume it is your diet.
- Only a medical test can confirm a deficiency.
- Take supplements if you have been diagnosed with a deficiency, as MedlinePlus advises.
- A dentist can rule out gum disease first.
Vitamin C and scurvy
MedlinePlus lists scurvy, which is caused by a vitamin C deficiency, as a cause of bleeding gums.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K deficiency is also on the MedlinePlus list. Vitamin K matters for blood clotting, which is why it appears next to blood thinners as a cause.
Do not skip the dental side
Our team sees plaque and tartar, gingivitis, and periodontitis far more often. If you take vitamins but leave plaque in place, the bleeding is likely to continue. Our page on bleeding gums treatment covers the full list of causes.
What MedlinePlus recommends
- Visit the dentist at least once every 6 months for plaque removal.
- Brush gently with a soft bristle toothbrush at least twice a day.
- If you have been diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency, take vitamin supplements.
- Do not use tobacco, since it makes bleeding gums worse.
Our Clay Road office at 4410 Westway Park Blvd #600 serves patients across Northwest Houston with same-day and walk-in appointments. For long term gum care, see our guide to periodontics.
New patients can start with an $89 emergency exam that includes digital X-rays of the tooth and a written estimate before treatment begins. Call to confirm the offer applies.
Source: MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine): Gums, bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vitamin deficiency causes bleeding gums? MedlinePlus lists vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) and vitamin K deficiency as causes.
Should I take vitamin C for bleeding gums? MedlinePlus advises taking supplements if you have been diagnosed with a deficiency. Ask your doctor before starting one.
How do I know if my bleeding gums are from a deficiency? A blood test is the way to know. A dental exam can also show whether plaque or gum disease is the cause.
Can a dentist tell if I have a vitamin deficiency? A dentist can check for gum disease and suggest you see your doctor if the cause looks medical.
