Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Brush My Teeth?

When it comes to your smile and oral health, attention to detail is key. However, seeing blood when brushing your teeth can throw off your efforts. If you're wondering about its significance and whether gum bleeding warrants concern, you've come to the right place

At Chroma Dental in the Midtown East area of New York City, Yev Davydov, DDS, Brianna Davydov, DDS, and our team are trusted experts in addressing all your smile concerns. From diagnosis to treatment options and personalized advice, we prioritize restoring your smile with precision and care every step of the way.

So, if you wonder about the possible reasons behind bleeding gums, we can help uncover everything you need to know.

Exploring the causes of bleeding gums

If you’re worried about the blood on your toothbrush, you’re not alone. This concern can be a sign of a few underlying oral health issues that we’re familiar with and able to treat. Here’s what you need to know:

Gingivitis

Perhaps the most common cause of bleeding gums, gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup along your gum line. When plaque doesn’t get removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can irritate your gums and lead to bleeding.

Poor oral hygiene

No matter the reason or cause, it’s always important to prioritize your oral hygiene. If your gums are bleeding when you brush your teeth, it could indicate issues with infrequent brushing and improper flossing techniques. This contributes to plaque buildup and can even lead to gum disease, if not addressed.

Aggressive brushing

On the other hand, it’s not healthy to brush your teeth too vigorously either. Brushes with hard bristles can also irritate your gums and cause them to bleed. We recommend using gentle, circular motions with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid gum irritation when you brush your teeth.

Medication

Additionally, certain medications like blood thinners and anticoagulants can increase the likelihood of gum bleeding during brushing. If you’re taking medication and experiencing this frustrating issue, don’t hesitate to contact our team for guidance.

What can you do about gum bleeding

Although we’ve covered some of the reasons why your gums may be bleeding, we want to get to the good part — what can you do to stop it? Along with taking better care of your oral hygiene and brushing your teeth more gently, here are a few more steps we recommend:

Regular dental checkups

We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with our team; we monitor your oral health and address any issues, such as gingivitis or gum disease before matters worsen.

Healthy lifestyle habits

Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting sugary and acidic foods or beverages, as these can contribute to gum disease. We also recommend avoiding smoking and tobacco use because they can exacerbate gum problems.

When to seek professional help

If you’ve tried many of our recommendations and are still concerned, it’s time to seek professional help. Although bleeding gums may not always be a cause for alarm, pay attention to the following signs that indicate it’s time for prompt dental care:

Persistent bleeding gums despite improved oral hygiene habits
Swollen, red, or tender gums
Loose teeth or changes in your bite
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

We don’t blame you for hearing alarm bells when you see blood during brushing. When you understand the causes, implement proper oral practices, and reach out to our team with any concerns, you are one step closer to maintaining healthy gums and restoring your smile.

If you’re ready to learn more, call our office at 646-933-8174 or visit our website to request an appointment today!