Why Are My Gums Bleeding? Common Causes and When to Call a Dentist
A reader wrote in and asked why their gums bleed when they brush their teeth. They wanted to know if this is common, or if it means they should see someone.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, bleeding gums are often caused by dental plaque buildup and are a common symptom of gingivitis, periodontitis, and other forms of gum disease.
The Cleveland Clinic also highlights that bleeding gums can sometimes point to other health issues, including diabetes, hormone changes, vitamin deficiencies, blood-clotting disorders, and stress.
Are bleeding gums common when brushing?
Bleeding gums can happen, but they shouldn’t be treated as “normal” if it keeps happening. Colgate reported that gums may bleed after brushing or flossing for several reasons, including the issues mentioned previously, plus medications, a change in dental routine, brushing too hard, flossing too aggressively, or using too much pressure.
A one-time bit of bleeding may come from brushing too hard or starting to floss again after a long break. Colgate states that if gums bleed when someone starts flossing regularly, it should usually clear up within a week with consistent flossing. If it doesn’t, the person should contact a dentist because it could be a sign of gingivitis.
What can cause bleeding gums while brushing teeth?
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) says gum disease is usually caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque to build up and harden.
Gum disease can start with swollen, red, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can spread to the bones around the gums and may eventually lead to loose teeth or tooth removal.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. Colgate found that gingivitis can cause swollen, tender gums that bleed during brushing, especially when plaque along the teeth and gumline isn’t removed well.
The good news is that gingivitis can often be reversed when treated early by a dentist or hygienist.
Yourdental Wellness states that bleeding can be linked to using a hard-bristled toothbrush, brushing too aggressively, or applying too much pressure while brushing. A soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle circular motion may help protect the gums.
Colgate also reported that blood-thinning medications may make gums bleed more easily because they reduce the blood’s ability to clot. If bleeding becomes more serious, the person should contact a physician.
Other symptoms to watch for
If you repeatedly have red, swollen, or tender gums, it deserves medical attention. So does bleeding that happens over and over, not just once after a rushed brushing session.
Information from NIDCR shows that gum disease symptoms may include gums that are red, swollen, tender, bleeding, or pulling away from the teeth. Other warning signs can include loose or sensitive teeth, pain while chewing, and persistent bad breath.
It’s one thing to think you brushed too hard, but if your gums are sore, and breath doesn’t improve with brushing, or if teeth start feeling different, medical help is needed.
When to see a dentist
The Cleveland Clinic states that if bleeding gums don’t improve within two weeks, the person should schedule an appointment with a dentist. A dentist can check whether gum disease is the cause and recommend the right treatment.
Call sooner if the bleeding is heavy, keeps coming back, or comes with pain, swelling, loose teeth, bad breath that won’t go away, or trouble chewing.
If there’s a medical condition, medication, or possible nutrient deficiency involved, it may also be worth contacting a physician.
Bleeding gums usually aren’t an emergency, but they are a signal to seek medical help.
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