Why would gums bleed

Bleeding gums most often reflect inflammation from plaque, but trauma, medications, or a deeper gum problem can also contribute.

Plaque is a bacterial film that collects around the gum margin; inflammatory chemicals make the gingiva red, puffy, and more likely to bleed. Bleeding can also follow vigorous brushing, floss snapping into the gum, a poorly fitting appliance, or changes in general health.

Use a soft brush twice daily and clean gently between every tooth with floss or an interdental brush suited to the space. Do not stop cleaning because of light bleeding, but book an examination to remove hardened calculus that home brushing cannot remove.

Make a dental appointment if bleeding continues, is spontaneous, or comes with bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, pus, or persistent swelling. Seek prompt medical attention for heavy unexplained bleeding or bruising elsewhere in the body.

Ask whether the bleeding is limited to gingivitis or involves periodontal pockets, and whether probing or radiographs are needed. Ask how to clean around your tooth shape, restorations, braces, or implants without injuring the tissue.