Bleeding gums can be symptoms of gum disease, gingivitis or a sign of low platelets – which is ultimately the case whenever my platelet levels are a little low. I can brush my teeth sometimes, instead of seeing some purely whites in the mirror all I see is red, and the taste – YUK!
Technically if you have healthy gums your mouth should not bleed however when you have a blood disorder where there is a lack of platelets (platelets are a product in the blood that helps the blood to clot). Then your mouth may bleed from time to time.
So what does this have to do with your toothbrush?
Well when you have ITP, you need to take extra precautions because ultimately you want to avoid any possible outcomes, which can cause you to bleed. If your platelet levels are low, a minor tear in the gums could turn into an emergency trip to the ER. Hence, prevention reduces the risks.
This does not mean that you should be afraid to brush your teeth and should not take your dental hygiene seriously (for best hygiene results brush your teeth twice a day morning and night).
This is however where soft bristled toothbrushes come into play. Not only do dental professionals state that these are the best toothbrushes to use in regards to removing plaque and debris from your teethe but they are also gentle on gums.
Now just in case everyone needs a little education here – you should be brushing your teeth for at least 2 minutes every time, use short, gentle strokes with extra caution when going around the gum line and do not forget the back of the mouth & hard to reach places. Toothbrushes need to be replaced every 3 months and it is extremely important to change toothbrushes after being sick (bristles can collect germs, which could lead to reinfection – Grose).
On a side note – if you have ITP you must have your platelets checked and notify your hematologist before proceeding to the dentist.