Why Do My
Gums Bleed?

Healthy gums do not bleed

The starting point: healthy gums do not bleed during normal brushing or interdental cleaning. If your gums are bleeding when you brush, that is a sign of inflammation, and inflammation in the mouth is always a clinical signal worth listening to.

The most common cause is gingivitis — early, reversible gum disease driven by plaque accumulation along the gum margin. Plaque (a soft bacterial film) builds up daily; if it is not removed thoroughly, the gums respond with inflammation, become tender, swollen and prone to bleeding.

Gingivitis is fully reversible with good professional cleaning and consistent home care over 4–8 weeks.

When bleeding gums signal something more serious

Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis — gum disease that involves the bone and supporting structures of the tooth. Periodontitis is treatable but not fully reversible: the bone loss does not regrow.

Signs that bleeding gums may indicate periodontitis rather than just gingivitis:

- Bad breath that does not resolve with standard hygiene - Receding gums — teeth appearing longer than they used to - Loose or shifting teeth - Persistent bad taste - Tender gums or pain on chewing - Pus around the gum line - Family history of gum disease or tooth loss

If any of these are present, book a periodontal assessment promptly. Early-stage periodontitis can be stabilised with non-surgical periodontal therapy (deep cleaning under the gumline) over 2–4 visits.

Other causes of bleeding gums

Less common but important:

1. Pregnancy gingivitis — hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the gum response to plaque. Resolves after pregnancy with good hygiene. 2. Vitamin deficiency (vitamin C, vitamin K) — rare in the UK in patients with adequate diet, more common in restricted diets. 3. Blood-thinning medication (warfarin, DOACs, aspirin) — can amplify bleeding from existing gingivitis. The underlying gingivitis still needs treating. 4. Brushing technique — over-aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled brush can cause traumatic bleeding. Switch to a soft-bristled brush and brush gently in small circular motions. 5. Smoking — paradoxically, smoking can mask bleeding (constricting the small blood vessels in the gums), so smokers may have advanced gum disease without dramatic bleeding signs. 6. Hormonal contraception — some patients notice increased gum sensitivity. Should be assessed if persistent.

What helps reverse early gingivitis

For mild bleeding gums (no other concerning signs):

1. Have a hygienist appointment. A professional clean removes the calcified deposits (calculus/tartar) that home brushing cannot. This is the single most effective intervention. 2. Brush twice daily with a soft brush. Spend at least 2 minutes. Pay attention to the gum margin — that is where plaque accumulates. 3. Use interdental brushes or floss daily. Gingivitis usually starts between teeth where the brush cannot reach. 4. Use a fluoride toothpaste at the recommended concentration (1450 ppm for adults). 5. Reduce smoking and sugary food/drink frequency. Both fuel the bacteria that cause gingivitis.

After 4 weeks of consistent home care plus a hygienist visit, mild gingivitis usually resolves and bleeding stops. If bleeding persists, a clinical reassessment is appropriate.

How Tower Dental approaches bleeding gums

At Tower Dental Blackpool, every routine examination includes a basic periodontal examination (BPE) to assess gum health. The BPE codes pocket depths and bleeding to triage need for further care:

- BPE 0–1: healthy or early gingivitis — routine hygiene and home care advice. - BPE 2: calculus or rough margins — hygienist appointment. - BPE 3: moderate pocketing — non-surgical periodontal therapy across 2–4 visits. - BPE 4: severe pocketing — full periodontal assessment, often referral or specialist follow-up.

Adult plan members (£19.60/month) are entitled to two routine examinations and two hygienist appointments per year. For patients with active gum disease, additional hygienist visits at 3-monthly intervals (15% off for plan members) form the foundation of long-term gum stability.

Talk through your own case

If your gums have been bleeding for more than a few weeks, or you have any of the more concerning signs above, the £40 consultation at Tower Dental Blackpool includes a full periodontal assessment. Call 01253 353759.