Teeth keep bleeding when brushing

Bleeding during brushing often means inflamed gums, but persistent bleeding, swelling, or loose teeth needs a dental examination.

Plaque at the gum margin can trigger gingivitis, making the tissue red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. Forceful brushing, a hard brush, calculus, periodontitis, medicines, or a general bleeding problem can also contribute.

Brush twice daily with a soft brush using small movements at the gumline, and clean between teeth daily. Do not scrub harder to compensate for bleeding; a hygienist can remove calculus that home cleaning cannot.

Arrange an examination when bleeding persists, returns frequently, or comes with bad breath, gum recession, tenderness, pus, or tooth movement. Get urgent help for uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly spreading swelling, or breathing and swallowing difficulty.

Ask whether the bleeding is gingivitis or periodontitis and whether you need periodontal measurements or a professional cleaning. Ask how to choose the right brush and between-teeth cleaner for your mouth.