Vitamin K Deficiency
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your blood clot. It’s found in leafy green vegetables and some oils, but most adults get enough from their diet. If you have problems with vitamin K deficiency, your gums could bleed more than usual, resulting in painful soreness and swelling.
Vitamin K deficiency is rare in the US, but it’s important to keep it in mind as a potential cause of bleeding gums since it can be treated with an injection.
Sore gums are often caused by periodontal (gum) disease. This gum inflammation is triggered by plaque buildup and is associated with smoking and diabetes. In rare cases, vitamin K deficiency may also contribute to sore gums; a genetic disorder or liver disease may cause this condition.
Treatment for vitamin K deficiencies involves taking supplements or eating foods rich in the vitamin every day. You should also see a doctor to treat any underlying condition contributing to the problem. Soreness may go away without treatment, but it will likely return once the condition has been resolved.
