Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Brush?
Seeing a bit of pink in the sink after you brush your teeth can be concerning. If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding, this could be a sign that they need more attention. Bleeding gums are most often a sign of plaque buildup, which you can usually address with improvements to your daily oral care routine. Dealing with the problem promptly can help you avoid discomfort and more involved procedures later on.
Common Reasons Your Gums May Bleed
Pinpointing the cause of bleeding gums is the first step toward getting your gums healthy again. So let’s have a look at what might be going on.
Plaque Buildup & Gingivitis
When plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along your gumline, it can irritate your gums. This can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease that can make your gums swollen, tender, and more likely to bleed during brushing.
Your Brush Technique
Sometimes, the way you brush is the issue. Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with firm bristles can be rough on your gums, causing them to bleed even if they’re otherwise healthy.
New Oral Care Routines
If you’ve recently started flossing more regularly, you might notice some bleeding at first. This is often temporary as your gums get used to the new routine. As your gums become healthier, the bleeding should stop.
Is It Normal for Gums to Bleed?
While it’s a common experience, bleeding gums aren’t something to ignore. Think of them as a signal from your body that something needs to change. Healthy gums typically don’t bleed with gentle brushing and flossing.
Bleeding tells you that your gums are inflamed and need some care to get back to a healthy state. Paying attention to your routine is often enough to resolve the issue.
How to Help Stop Bleeding Gums
You can take simple, practical steps at home to improve your gum health. As is so often the case, a consistent approach is key to seeing results.
Improve Your Oral Hygiene Habits
The Canadian Dental Association provides helpful guidance on proper flossing and brushing techniques to keep your gums healthy:
- Brush for two minutes, twice a day, with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss once a day to clean between your teeth where your brush can’t reach.
- Rinse with an alcohol-free, antiseptic mouthwash to help reduce plaque.
Look at Your Diet & Lifestyle
What you eat can also affect your gums. A balanced diet rich in vitamins helps support gum health. Including lots of fruits and vegetables can help keep your gums strong.
Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups
At-home care is important, but sometimes your gums need extra help.. Plaque that stays on your teeth can harden into tartar, which only a professional cleaning can remove. Regular visits to your dentist allow for a thorough cleaning and a check on your gum health.
When to See a Dentist for Bleeding Gums
If bleeding continues for more than a week after you’ve improved your home care routine, it’s a good idea to schedule a dental appointment. Pay attention to how your mouth feels and looks.
You can book a visit if you experience any of the following along with bleeding gums:
- Gums that are bright red, swollen, or feel tender
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Gums that look like they’re pulling away from your teeth
- Discomfort when you chew
Your Partner in Family Oral Health
At Dow’s Lake Dental, we understand that life is busy. That’s why we offer accommodating opening hours and text message appointments to make your visit easier. Treating dental issues early can help you avoid pain, infection, and more costly procedures later on.
Bleeding gums are a common issue that you can often address with simple changes to your daily habits. With a gentle oral care routine and regular check-ups, you can work toward a future with healthier gums. We’re here to support your family’s oral health journey with compassionate care in English, French, and Arabic.
Come visit us at Dow’s Lake Dental and learn more about how to keep your family’s smiles healthy for years to come.
We welcome walk-ins, and we look forward to meeting you.
