Bleeding gums: why this is not normal
Blood on the toothbrush, or when cleaning between the teeth, is a common sign of inflamed gums. Because there is usually no pain at an early stage, it is easy to overlook the problem or to put off seeing a dentist for a long time. The good news: while the inflammation is confined to the gums and has not yet reached the tissues that support the tooth, it is reversible.
Author: Natalja Matveeva, Dentist Why gums bleed
Soft bacterial plaque forms constantly along the edges of the teeth and between them. If it is not removed regularly, the gum becomes inflamed: it may turn red, swell and bleed when you brush.
This surface inflammation is called gingivitis. At this stage the process is reversible: professional hygiene and proper care at home remove the cause of the inflammation and bring the gums back to health.
When the problem becomes more serious
Over time, plaque that is not removed can mineralise and turn into tartar, which cannot properly be taken off with an ordinary toothbrush.
If the inflammation spreads deeper and reaches the tissues holding the tooth in place, periodontitis develops. It can produce periodontal pockets and loss of bone, and at later stages the teeth may become loose. That is why it is important to see a dentist while the bleeding is the only sign, rather than waiting for more pronounced symptoms.
What to do
Don't stop brushing
If a gum bleeds, don't steer the brush around that spot. Poor cleaning leads to more plaque building up and keeps the inflammation going. Carry on brushing gently twice a day and clean between the teeth every day.
Book an examination and professional hygiene
If your gums bleed regularly, it is worth seeing a dentist or hygienist. They will assess the state of the gums, whether there is tartar and whether periodontal pockets have formed, and decide whether professional hygiene is enough or further treatment is needed.
What raises the risk
Smoking significantly raises the risk of periodontal disease and can at the same time make the bleeding less noticeable. Diabetes, particularly where blood sugar is poorly controlled, is also linked to a higher risk and a more severe course of gum disease.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can heighten the gums' reaction to plaque, which makes careful cleaning at home and regular check-ups especially important.
This article is for information only and does not replace an examination. The cause of the bleeding and the stage of inflammation are determined by a dentist.
Articles explain the general picture; the decision is always individual. Come in for a consultation — the dentist will examine you, take a scan and explain the options with an estimate.
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