Bleeding Gums? Causes & What to Do

Seeing pink in the sink? Learn the common causes of bleeding gums, from gingivitis to brushing habits. Find out how to stop it and when to see a dentist.

Don't Ignore the Pink in the Sink: Understanding Bleeding Gums

Seeing a tinge of pink or red in the sink after brushing or flossing can be alarming. While it’s a common experience, it’s not something you should ignore. Your gums are a key indicator of your overall oral health, and bleeding is often their way of sending you a warning sign.

Ignoring bleeding gums can allow a minor issue to develop into a more serious one. The good news is that in most cases, the cause is easily identifiable and treatable, especially when caught early. Let's explore the common reasons why your gums might be bleeding and what you can do about it.

Top 5 Causes of Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums are primarily a sign of inflammation. This inflammation is your body's response to bacteria that have accumulated along the gumline. Here are the most frequent culprits:

Gingivitis: This is the most common cause. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on your teeth. If not removed by regular brushing and flossing, this plaque hardens into tartar, which further irritates the gums, causing them to become swollen, tender, and prone to bleeding.
Improper Brushing or Flossing: Technique matters! Brushing too aggressively with a hard-bristle toothbrush can damage the delicate gum tissue and cause bleeding. Similarly, if you've just started a flossing routine (or haven't flossed in a while), you may notice some bleeding as your gums adjust.
Medications: Certain medications, especially blood thinners (anticoagulants), can increase the likelihood of bleeding from your gums. It's crucial to let your dentist know about all the medications you are currently taking.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more sensitive to inflammation, a condition often called "pregnancy gingivitis."
Underlying Health Conditions: In rarer cases, persistent bleeding gums can be a symptom of other health issues, such as vitamin deficiencies (particularly Vitamin C and K) or bleeding disorders.

What You Can Do at Home to Stop Gum Bleeding

For many, improving your oral hygiene routine is enough to resolve the issue. Here are some immediate steps you can take:

Master Your Brushing Technique: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently for two minutes, twice a day. Focus on angling the bristles at a 45-degree angle towards the gumline.
Commit to Daily Flossing: Flossing cleans 35% of your tooth's surface that brushing misses. Use a gentle gliding motion and curve the floss into a 'C' shape against each tooth. If bleeding occurs, don't stop; it should subside within a week or two as your gums become healthier.
Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in your mouth and soothe inflamed gums.
Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamin C, supports a healthy immune system and promotes gum health.

What You Can Do at Home to Stop Gum Bleeding

For many, improving your oral hygiene routine is enough to resolve the issue. Here are some immediate steps you can take:

Master Your Brushing Technique: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently for two minutes, twice a day. Focus on angling the bristles at a 45-degree angle towards the gumline.
Commit to Daily Flossing: Flossing cleans 35% of your tooth's surface that brushing misses. Use a gentle gliding motion and curve the floss into a 'C' shape against each tooth. If bleeding occurs, don't stop; it should subside within a week or two as your gums become healthier.
Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in your mouth and soothe inflamed gums.
Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamin C, supports a healthy immune system and promotes gum health.

When It's Time to See the Dentist

While home care is essential, it isn't always enough. You should schedule an appointment with your dentist if:

Your gums continue to bleed after 1-2 weeks of improved oral hygiene.
Your gums are very red, swollen, or painful to the touch.
You have persistent bad breath (halitosis) that doesn't go away.
You notice your gums are pulling away from your teeth (receding).
Your teeth feel loose.

A professional cleaning is the only way to remove hardened tartar buildup. During your visit, we can accurately diagnose the cause of your bleeding gums and recommend a personalized treatment plan to restore your oral health.

Your Partner in Oral Health at Meadowbrook Dental Care

Healthy gums don't bleed. Think of bleeding gums not as a problem, but as an important signal from your body that it's time to take action. By combining a great at-home routine with regular professional care, you can ensure your smile stays healthy and bright for years to come.

Don't wait for a small warning sign to become a serious concern. If you're worried about bleeding gums, the friendly and professional team at Meadowbrook Dental Care is here to help. Call us today to schedule your comprehensive check-up and cleaning!

Book Your Consultation