Gum bleeding is caused by a deficiency of which vitamin?

Aug 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Introduction
If gum bleeding is caused by a vitamin deficiency, it is typically due to insufficient vitamin C. Vitamin C—a weak acid also known as ascorbic acid—plays a vital role in maintaining dental health, preventing gum bleeding, and promoting wound healing. Vitamin C is essential for the body’s synthesis of collagen, a structural protein that functions like “biological glue,” binding cells together.

Many people experience gum bleeding at some point in their lives. Some cases occur while brushing teeth, others while chewing hard foods, and the most severe cases may involve spontaneous, unexplained bleeding. Gum bleeding can sometimes be caused by deficiencies in certain vitamins. So, which vitamin deficiency is associated with gum bleeding?

Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes Gum Bleeding?

If gum bleeding results from a vitamin deficiency, it is most commonly due to insufficient vitamin C. Vitamin C—also known as ascorbic acid—is an organic acid essential for maintaining dental health, preventing gum bleeding, and promoting wound healing. It is also indispensable for collagen synthesis in the body. Collagen functions like a biological “glue” between cells, helping maintain the structural integrity of tissues. When vitamin C is deficient, collagen synthesis is impaired, making symptoms such as gum bleeding more likely.

Gum bleeding can be serious. It is advisable to visit a hospital or dental clinic for professional teeth cleaning (scaling) to remove dental calculus (tartar) and plaque from tooth surfaces; this often leads to significant improvement in gum bleeding. Additionally, thorough daily brushing and consistent oral hygiene practices are essential to prevent food debris from calcifying in the mouth and forming new tartar. Ideally, professional dental cleanings should be scheduled every six months or at least once a year. Mild gum bleeding during scaling is common and generally considered normal—there’s no need for excessive concern.

In daily life, cultivating healthy lifestyle and dietary habits is crucial. We hope this information has been helpful to you.