Bleeding gums when brushing?
Does your toothbrush look a little too pink lately? Bleeding gums are not just a nuisance; they are a clear indicator of gum inflammation that requires your immediate attention. While aggressive brushing can sometimes be the culprit, the real underlying issue is often a build-up of bacterial plaque right along the gum line.
When you see blood, your gums are demonstrating gingivitis, which is essentially inflammation caused by unchecked plaque build-up. Plaque is an irritating film of bacteria that settles right where the tooth meets the gum, releasing powerful toxins. Your body tries to fight this infection by increasing the blood flow to the area, leaving the gum tissue extremely sensitive and swollen. This fragile state means that the simple, necessary action of brushing or flossing is enough to break the weakened surface vessels, causing them to bleed. It's critical not to ignore this. Persistent, untreated bleeding is a red flag that the infection is deepening and could lead to periodontitis—the advanced stage of gum disease that risks the stability of your teeth.
Bleeding Gums: Your Action Plan -
Stop Avoiding the Brush: Do not stop cleaning! Bleeding is caused by plaque, not your brush. Immediately adopt a soft brush and use gentle, focused movements along the gum line. Daily flossing or interdental brushing is non-negotiable to remove the deep plaque irritants.
Be Consistent with Quality Tools: The fix demands absolute consistency: twice daily, two-minute brushing, and daily interdental cleaning. Consider upgrading to an electric toothbrush and using interdental brushes or a water flosser for efficient plaque removal every day.
Book Your Hygienist Appointment ASAP: If you see blood, we urge you to book a professional cleaning immediately. Tartar (calculus) is hardened plaque that cannot be removed at home and is likely fuelling the bleeding. A scale and polish is the essential step to eliminate this build-up and ensure proper healing.
Check Your Habits: For long-term health, you must address smoking, as it severely impairs gum healing. Also, make sure your dental team is aware of any systemic health conditions (like diabetes). Stick rigorously to your established maintenance schedule after treatment to prevent recurrence.
If you're still seeing blood in the sink, let this be your final call to action. While enhanced home care is crucial for maintaining health, it cannot fix existing damage or remove hardened tartar (calculus). That requires professional help. We strongly recommend you see a dentist or hygienist as soon as possible to get a professional deep cleaning. This is the essential step that removes the root cause of the irritation and allows your gums to heal properly. Don't let fear or procrastination lead to the irreversible damage of periodontitis. Take control of your oral health today—your smile depends on it.