Bleeding gum around tooth

Bleeding around one tooth usually means the nearby gum is inflamed by plaque, trapped food, trauma, or a local dental problem.

The gum beside one tooth can bleed when plaque irritates the gingival margin or when flossing injures tissue. A cavity, cracked filling, calculus, or periodontal pocket can also localize inflammation.

Brush gently with fluoride toothpaste and clean between the teeth without snapping the floss. Arrange an examination if the bleeding repeats after careful cleaning.

Seek prompt care for pus, swelling, fever, loose teeth, severe pain, or bleeding that does not settle with gentle pressure. Facial swelling or trouble breathing or swallowing is an emergency.

Ask whether the bleeding comes from gingivitis, a periodontal pocket, decay, a cracked restoration, or trauma, and whether probing or an X-ray is needed.