Bleeding Gums: Irritation or a Sign of Disease

Why are my gums bleeding? Sometimes it really is minor irritation. But very often bleeding gums are the first signal of gum inflammation. And the sooner you pay attention to it, the easier it is to bring the gums back to a healthy state.

When bleeding gums are not yet a problem

There are situations when you may see gums bleeding after brushing from time to time, and it does not mean disease:

• you have started using floss or an oral irrigator (a water flosser) after a long break, so you see gums bleeding after flossing;
• you have switched to a harder toothbrush;
• you press too hard when brushing;
• you have injured your gums with hard food.

In such cases the irritation usually goes away within a few days, if you:

• brush more gently,
• use a toothbrush with soft bristles,
• do not skip your hygiene routine.

If the bleeding keeps coming back regularly, that is already a reason to stop and think.

When bleeding gums are a sign of gum disease

Most often the cause is gum inflammation (gingivitis is inflammation limited to the gums, periodontitis is inflammation that has reached the tissues that hold the tooth). It arises from the build-up of plaque and bacteria at the gum line.

Signs to look out for:

• the gums are red, swollen or sore;
• blood appears almost every time you brush;
• you have noticed bad breath;
• the gums feel “puffy”;
• sometimes there is sensitivity or looseness of the teeth.

At this stage the problem can no longer be solved just by changing your toothbrush: you need to be examined by a doctor.

Why are my gums bleeding, and why is it dangerous to ignore it

Gum inflammation rarely goes away on its own. Without treatment it can:

• become chronic;
• destroy the tissues that hold the tooth in place;
• cause looseness and even loss of teeth;
• worsen the overall condition of the mouth.

Most patients do not regret coming early. They regret waiting too long.