What do i do if my gums are bleeding

Bleeding gums often reflect gum inflammation from plaque, but injury, medicines, or a medical bleeding problem can also contribute.

The right response depends on the tissue involved and whether the problem is local or linked to a wider health issue.

Plaque can inflame gum tissue and cause bleeding, while trauma, trapped food, an erupting tooth, medicines, or infection can produce a localized bleed.

A clinical examination separates a surface change from disease beneath the gum, inside a tooth, or elsewhere in the mouth.

Clean gently with a soft brush, remove visible debris without sharp objects, and apply clean gauze with steady pressure to a focal bleeding area.

Record triggers and changes so the clinician can match the symptom with the examination.

Arrange care for bleeding that persists or recurs. Get urgent help for heavy bleeding, spreading swelling, fever, pus, or swallowing or breathing difficulty.

Do not delay when symptoms are worsening or interfering with eating, sleeping, or normal mouth function.

Ask whether the cause is gingivitis, periodontal disease, trauma, an erupting tooth, infection, or a medicine, and whether probing or imaging is needed.

Ask what you can do between visits and how the result will be checked.