Dental questions · Gum health
Why Do My Gums Bleed?
Bleeding when you brush or floss is common, but it is not normal. It is usually an early sign of gum inflammation. Here are the common causes, what you can do at home and when to see a dentist.
- Most often gingivitis
- Reversible when caught early
- Check-up and clean
- Health fund rebates
Bleeding for more than two weeks?
A gum check and clean at our Sandgate clinic can find the cause and catch problems early.
Call now →Common causes
What causes bleeding gums?
The most common cause is gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque building up along the gumline. Inflamed gums are tender and bleed easily when touched.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and can usually be reversed with a professional clean and good home care. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which affects the bone that supports the teeth.
Other things that can play a part
Brushing technique
Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled brush can irritate the gums. A soft brush is best.
Pregnancy and hormones
Hormone changes can make gums more sensitive, often called pregnancy gingivitis.
Medications
Blood thinners and some other medicines can make gums bleed more easily. Keep taking them as prescribed and let your dentist know.
General health
Conditions such as diabetes can affect gum health, so tell us about any changes in your medical history.
What you can do
How to stop gums bleeding at home
If your gums bleed, keep brushing and cleaning between your teeth. It is tempting to avoid the sore area, but plaque left behind keeps the gums inflamed.
With gentle, thorough cleaning, mild bleeding from gingivitis often settles within a week or two. If it does not, it is time for a check-up.
When to see a dentist
Book a check-up if bleeding lasts more than two weeks, or if you notice swollen or receding gums, bad breath that will not go away, or teeth that feel loose.
Simple daily habits
Brush twice a day
Use a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste, angled gently toward the gumline.
Clean between teeth daily
Floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser all help. Bleeding usually eases as the gums settle.
Keep up regular cleans
A professional scale and clean removes hardened tartar that a toothbrush cannot.
Avoid smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and can hide bleeding while it gets worse.
At your appointment
What happens at a gum check?
Your dentist looks at your gums, measures the small pockets between the gums and teeth, and may take X-rays to check the bone. This shows whether you have gingivitis or more advanced gum disease.
Most people with gingivitis need a scale and clean and a few changes to home care. If there are signs of periodontitis, we explain your options and what each involves before any treatment. Gum disease treatment is quoted after assessment.
What we look for
Bleeding points
Where the gums bleed when gently checked.
Pocket depths
Deeper pockets between gum and tooth can be a sign of gum disease.
Tartar build-up
Hard deposits above and below the gumline that brushing cannot remove.
Bone levels
X-rays show whether the bone supporting the teeth has been affected.
Meet your dentists
Experienced, highly qualified and genuinely kind
All of our dentists are registered with Ahpra and keep learning well beyond their degrees, so you get thoughtful, up-to-date care.
Dr Andrew Bachour
Principal Dentist
BDSc (Hons, UQ). Master’s degrees in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedics and in Sleep Medicine. Special interest in TMJ, orofacial pain and airway health.
Dr Michael Au
Dentist
BDSc (Hons, UQ). Known for his gentle touch and clear explanations, with advanced training in restorative dentistry and full-mouth rehabilitation.
Dr Pei San Chan
Dentist
BDS (Adelaide), GradDip Orthodontics (JCU), DipOrtho (UJI). Warm, calm care for patients of all ages, including children and orthodontics.
Book a check-up and clean
If your gums are bleeding, we can find out why. Book online or call our Sandgate team on (07) 3269 2064.