Noticed a bit of pink in the sink after brushing your teeth? It’s easy to assume you’ve just been brushing too hard. While vigorous brushing can indeed irritate your gums, it’s not the only reason they might bleed. In fact, bleeding gums can be your body’s way of telling you that something more is going on.
Let’s break down some of the most common (and often overlooked) causes of bleeding gums – and what you can do about it.
1. Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis)
The most common cause of bleeding gums is gingivitis – the early stage of gum disease. It happens when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline and causes inflammation. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that damages the tissues and bone supporting your teeth.
Signs include red, swollen gums, bad breath, receding gums, and yes – bleeding when brushing or flossing.
The good news? Gingivitis is reversible with improved oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings. The earlier you catch it, the better.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
It’s not always about brushing too hard – sometimes, it’s not brushing enough. Infrequent brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up and harden into tartar, which irritates your gums and leads to bleeding.
Brushing gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly can help keep your gums healthy and prevent bleeding.
3. Hormonal Changes
For women, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can affect gum health. These changes can make gums more sensitive, increasing the likelihood of inflammation and bleeding – a condition sometimes referred to as “pregnancy gingivitis.”
Although these changes are natural, keeping up with your dental routine and talking to your dentist about any concerns is still important.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Your gums need the right nutrients to stay healthy. A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to scurvy, which affects the gums and causes them to bleed. Although scurvy is rare in modern diets, mild vitamin C deficiency is not uncommon – especially if your meals lack fruits and vegetables.
Similarly, a lack of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting, can contribute to bleeding gums. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, citrus fruits, and other whole foods can make a real difference.
5. Medications
Certain medications, such as blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, aspirin), can increase the risk of bleeding – including in your gums. Other medications might cause dry mouth, which reduces saliva flow and can affect gum health over time.
If you’re on medication and notice gum bleeding, let your dentist know. They can help you adjust your oral care routine accordingly.
6. Stress and Smoking
It might surprise you to learn that stress can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off gum infections. On top of that, smoking reduces blood flow to the gums and increases the risk of gum disease – often without the obvious symptom of bleeding, which makes it even harder to catch.
Cutting down on stress and quitting smoking can significantly improve your overall and oral health.
When to See a Dentist
If your gums bleed regularly – even a little – it’s not something to ignore. Occasional bleeding might be harmless, but persistent symptoms can signal something more serious. A dental professional can identify the cause and guide you on how to treat it properly.
Bleeding gums aren’t always the result of brushing too hard. From gum disease and hormonal changes to poor diet and medication, many factors can be at play. The key is to listen to your body, maintain a solid dental care routine, and seek help when something doesn’t feel right.
Your smile and your gums, will thank you.