My teeth hurt and my gums are bleeding

Tooth pain with bleeding gums can come from inflamed gum tissue, decay, a cracked tooth, or an infection and needs an examination to identify the cause.

These symptoms can occur together when plaque irritates the gingiva or when a diseased tooth irritates nearby tissues. Pain that lingers, throbs, or worsens with biting can point to involvement of the pulp or tissues around a tooth root.

Brush gently with a soft toothbrush, clean between the teeth carefully, and rinse with warm salt water. Do not place aspirin or concentrated peroxide on the gum; note which tooth hurts, what triggers it, and whether swelling or fever is present.

Arrange dental care promptly, especially if pain persists or bleeding recurs. Urgent care is needed for facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or rapidly worsening pain.

Sometimes, but repeated bleeding more often reflects gingival inflammation; a dentist can check both brushing technique and gum health.