Bleeding gums
Healthy gums do not bleed. The most common reason they do is plaque left along the gum line, which inflames the gum (gingivitis). This is usually reversible with a professional clean and better home care. Bleeding that keeps returning, or comes with loose teeth, needs an examination.
Common causes
Red, puffy gums that bleed when you brush or floss, often with bad breath. The most common cause, and usually reversible.
Gum treatment →Tartar (calculus) build-upHard deposits along or under the gum line that brushing cannot remove. They keep the gum irritated and bleeding.
Gum treatment →Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)Bleeding with gum recession, deep pockets, persistent bad breath or teeth that feel slightly loose. Bone support around the teeth is being lost.
Gum treatment →Brushing too hard or a new routineA hard brush or heavy pressure can injure the gum. Starting to floss after a long gap can also cause bleeding for a week or two.
General dentistry: check-ups, cleaning and fillings →Hormonal changesPregnancy, puberty and some medicines make gums more reactive to plaque, so they swell and bleed more easily.
Gum treatment →Medicines and health conditionsBlood thinners, uncontrolled diabetes and some other conditions can cause or worsen gum bleeding. Tell your dentist what you take.
General dentistry: check-ups, cleaning and fillings →Ill-fitting crown, filling or bracesA rough edge or an overhang can trap plaque and irritate the gum next to it.
Crowns and bridges →See a dentist today if you have
- Bleeding that does not stop after 10–15 minutes of firm pressure with clean gauze
- Bleeding gums with a swollen, painful lump on the gum or a bad taste
- Bleeding with fever or swelling of the face
- Bleeding gums together with unusual bruising, nosebleeds or tiredness: see a doctor promptly
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing: go to a hospital now
- Keep brushing twice a day with a soft brush, including along the gum line. Brush gently; do not scrub.
- Clean between your teeth once a day with floss or interdental brushes. Mild bleeding in the first week or two usually settles as the gums heal.
- Rinse with warm salt water (half a teaspoon in a glass of water).
- Do not stop cleaning the bleeding area; stopping lets plaque build up and makes it worse.
- Stop smoking or tobacco use if you can; it hides bleeding and worsens gum disease.
Questions patients ask
Is it normal for gums to bleed when I floss?
It is common, but it is not a sign of healthy gums. It usually means inflammation from plaque. If daily cleaning does not stop it within 1–2 weeks, have the gums checked.
Can bleeding gums heal on their own?
Early gingivitis often settles within 1–2 weeks of careful daily cleaning. Tartar cannot be brushed off, so if it is present you need a professional clean. Gum disease that has reached the bone does not go away without treatment.
Does bleeding gums mean a serious illness?
Most of the time it is local gum inflammation. Rarely, persistent bleeding comes with other signs such as easy bruising or tiredness, which need a doctor's assessment.
Will a dental clean damage my gums?
A scaling and polishing removes the plaque and tartar that irritate the gums. The gums may feel tender and bleed a little for a day or two, then become firmer and pinker.
Which dentist will I see?
Dr. Nimisha Pandya examines you first and advises on gum care. See the gum disease page for how treatment works.
Questions about this treatment?
Send a WhatsApp message or book an examination. The dentist explains the options before anything starts.