Have you ever noticed blood in the sink when brushing or flossing. It can seem like nothing, especially if it only happens occasionally, but often bleeding gums can be an early warning sign that something is not right with your oral health. Ignoring this at an early stage can lead to bigger problems down the track!
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
If you notice bleeding gums while brushing or flossing it can also be caused by a buildup of plaque sitting along the gum lines, which causes inflammation of the gums.
The most common cause is Gingivitis—an early stage of gum disease. At this stage, gums may appear red, swollen, and bleed easily. The good news? It’s usually reversible with proper care.
Other possible causes include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush – this is why we recommend soft toothbrushes
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy)
- Certain medications
- Vitamin deficiencies (especially Vitamin C and K)
When Bleeding Gums Become an Issue
If you ignore the early warning signs of bleeding gums, the reversable issue of gingivitis progresses into periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more severe condition that affects the bone supporting your teeth.
At this stage, you may experience:
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession (teeth appearing longer)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain when chewing
Periodontitis is much more serious as it can cause irreversible damage and requires more complex treatment.
What You Should Do if You Have Bleeding Gums
At the first sing of bleeding gums, it is crucial that you organise a visit with your dentist. We recommend routine 6 monthly check up appointments so we can keep an eye on your teeth and gums. This allows us to catch any issues early and prevent bigger issues down the track.
- Always brush teeth and gums with a soft bristled toothbrush.
- Don’t let bleeding put you off cleaning – continue to brush twice a day, circular motion, concentrating on the gumline areas.
- Avoid scrubbing hard and avoid hard brushes.
- Floss at least once a day
- Organise 6 monthly check up and cleans with your dental team
- Pro brushing tips – see video here!
If you are experiencing any dental concerns, or if you’re due for a checkup, please contact us!