Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Brush My Teeth?

If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you might not think much of it. But healthy gums aren’t supposed to bleed—not even a little. While a “pink-tinged” sink may seem inconsequential, it is often a clinical warning sign of a serious infection that, left untreated, leads to tooth loss and systemic health issues.

When a Toothbrush Isn’t Enough: Understanding the Risk

While minor bleeding can occasionally be caused by aggressive brushing, persistent bleeding is a clinical sign of active infection. As a periodontal specialist, Dr. Kennie Kwok identifies the root cause of bleeding, whether it’s early gingivitis or advanced bone loss, to prevent tooth loss before it starts

Solution: When a Toothbrush Isn’t Enough: Seeking Specialist Care

1. Active Gum Disease (Gingivitis & Periodontitis)

A telltale sign of periodontal disease are gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss. In its early stages, gum disease takes the form of gingivitis, causing redness, swelling, and irritation where your gums meet the base of your teeth. Gingivitis can progress to a more serious gum disease known as periodontitis, which infects the deeper layer of soft tissue and can cause damage to your teeth and bones.

A telltale sign of periodontal disease is gums that bleed easily. In its early stage (Gingivitis), you will notice redness and swelling. If left to progress, it becomes Periodontitis, which infects the deeper soft tissue and destroys the bone supporting your teeth.

Solution: After a comprehensive oral exam, your dentist will recommend the right course of action to treat your gum disease. Depending on the severity and location of the infection, you may need professional cleaning, scaling and root planing, or surgical treatments. Most gum disease results from poor oral hygiene habits, so be you’re sticking to a regular recommended brushing and flossing routine, too.

2. Dental Abscess or Infection

When a cavity or crack goes untreated, bacteria can infect the dental pulp and the tooth root. This creates tender, inflamed gums that bleed and cause significant pain when brushing.

• The Specialist Solution: To save the tooth, the infection must be eliminated. Dr. Kwok can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine if the tooth can be saved through specialized periodontal care or if an extraction is necessary to protect your jawbone.

3. Ill-Fitting Dentures or Partials

Dentures that shift or rub can irritate the gum tissue, leading to sores and bleeding. This often happens because of bone loss in the jaw, which changes the shape of your mouth over time.

• The Specialist Solution: To prevent further bone loss, consider Dental Implants. Implants mimic the structure of a natural tooth root, stimulating the jawbone and providing a stable, non-irritating foundation that keeps gum tissue healthy.

4. Brushing Too Hard or Recession

Sometimes, bleeding gums can be caused by something other than your oral health or hygiene. For example, if you’re on a blood thinner, such as heparin or warfarin, you may bleed more easily when you brush your teeth. Pregnant women can also experience bleeding gums due to hormonal changes that contribute to inflammation, and occasionally, pregnancy-related gingivitis. Additionally, certain vitamin deficiencies can cause weakened gum tissue and impede your body’s ability to heal.

Solution: Ensure you’re eating a healthy diet, with plenty of Vitamin C. And if you’re concerned that an underlying medical condition may be causing your gums to bleed, make an appointment with your doctor for a full physical exam.

5. Underlying Health Conditions & Medications

Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy), vitamin C deficiencies, or blood thinners (heparin/warfarin) can cause gums to bleed more easily.

• The Specialist Solution: We review your full medical history to coordinate care with your physician, ensuring your periodontal treatment is safe and effective for your specific health needs.

Best Periodontist for bleeding gums San Diego

Whatever the cause of your bleeding gums, San Diego Periodontics & Implant Dentistry can help you find the solution. Dr. Kwok is committed to understanding your periodontal problems, devising appropriate treatment plans, and providing the best service possible in a safe, comfortable, and professional environment.

Call us at (619) 543-0905 and let us help you develop a plan for long-term periodontal health.