8 Reasons Your Gums Might Bleed and What to Do
Noticing a little pink in the sink after brushing or flossing? You’re not alone. Bleeding gums are a common dental concern, but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. In fact, bleeding gums may be a warning sign that something more serious is going on.
At Brandon Smiles Dentistry, we often remind our patients that healthy gums shouldn’t bleed. So, if your gums are bleeding, it’s time to pay attention.
The good news is that many causes of bleeding gums are preventable or treatable, especially when caught early. In this post, the Brandon Smiles Dentistry team will explore 8 common reasons your gums might be bleeding, and what you can do to get them back to health.
Reasons Your Gums Might Bleed
1. You’re Brushing Too Hard
Some may think that the harder you brush, the cleaner your teeth will be. But that’s not the case. Using too much pressure or a toothbrush with hard bristles can actually harm your gums, causing irritation, abrasion, and bleeding.
Gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush is all you need to remove plaque without damaging delicate gum tissue. If your brush looks worn out quickly or your gums feel sore afterward, it might be time to ease up.
2. You Just Started Flossing (or Changed Your Technique)
If you’ve recently added flossing to your routine or changed how you floss, your gums may bleed at first. This is often a temporary reaction, especially if your gums are inflamed from plaque buildup.
The key is consistency. Flossing daily helps remove bacteria between your teeth and strengthens gum health over time. With regular care, the bleeding should stop within a few days. If it doesn’t, it’s best to have your dentist take a closer look.
3. You Have Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and bleeding gums are often one of the first signs. Caused by plaque and tartar buildup at the gum line, gingivitis results in inflammation, redness, and tenderness. Fortunately, Gingivitis is reversible with improved oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings.
If your gums bleed often, especially when brushing or flossing, gingivitis could be the reason and it’s your cue to step up your dental routine and visit the dentist.
4. You Have Periodontitis
If gingivitis goes untreated, it can progress to a more serious form of gum disease known as periodontitis. At this stage, the gums start to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that can become infected. T
his not only causes persistent bleeding but also bone loss, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Periodontitis requires professional treatment, such as deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance to manage the condition.
5. You’re Pregnant
Pregnancy hormones can increase blood flow to the gums and make them more sensitive to plaque and bacteria. This condition, known as pregnancy gingivitis, affects many expectant mothers (especially during the second trimester).
While the symptoms usually subside after childbirth, it’s important to continue good oral hygiene and see your dentist during pregnancy to prevent complications.
6. Your Medications Are a Factor
Certain medications can contribute to bleeding gums. Blood thinners, like aspirin or warfarin, reduce the blood’s ability to clot and can make your gums more prone to bleeding. Other medications, like those for high blood pressure or seizures, can cause gum overgrowth or increase sensitivity. If you notice bleeding after starting a new medication, speak with both your doctor and your dentist. Never stop a prescribed medication without medical guidance, but do keep your dental team informed.
7. You Have a Vitamin Deficiency
Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamins C and K, can affect gum health. Vitamin C is crucial for tissue repair and immune function, while vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting. A lack of either can lead to gum inflammation and increased bleeding. If your diet lacks fresh fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens, it might be time to make some changes. Your dentist or doctor can help determine if supplements or dietary adjustments are needed.
8. You’re Dealing with Stress or an Underlying Health Condition
Chronic stress weakens the immune system and can contribute to inflammation throughout the body and including the gums. Additionally, health conditions like diabetes and certain autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of gum problems. If you’ve ruled out other causes and your gums continue to bleed, a broader health issue may be at play. In these cases, a coordinated approach between your dentist and healthcare provider can help manage the root cause.
What You Can Do About Bleeding Gums
The first step to healthier gums is recognizing that bleeding is not normal and shouldn’t be brushed off (pun intended). Start by taking a closer look at your brushing and flossing habits. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush twice a day for two minutes, and floss daily. If your oral hygiene has been inconsistent, now’s the time to get back on track.
Just as important is visiting your dentist regularly. Professional cleanings remove tartar and help catch issues like gingivitis before they turn into bigger problems. Your dentist can assess the cause of your bleeding gums, offer personalized advice, and recommend treatments or changes to your routine if needed.
Don’t wait until the bleeding gets worse or discomfort sets in. The sooner you take action, the easier it is to reverse or manage the issue.
Gum Care at Brandon Smiles Dentistry
Bleeding gums are a sign that something isn’t quite right, whether it’s an overly enthusiastic brushing routine, the early stages of gum disease, or a reaction to a new medication. Whatever the cause, the important thing is not to ignore it. Healthy gums don’t bleed and if yours do, it’s worth getting them checked out.
At Brandon Smiles Dentistry, we’re here to help you get to the bottom of your gum concerns and guide you toward better oral health. Book an appointment with us today and let our team take the guesswork out of your smile care.