Why Your Gums Are Bleeding — And When to Worry

If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, you might be tempted to brush it off. Don't. Bleeding gums are almost never normal — they're your body's warning that something needs attention.

The most common cause: gingivitis Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It occurs when plaque builds up along the gumline and triggers inflammation. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing.

The good news: gingivitis is completely reversible with proper cleaning and improved home care.

When it's more serious: periodontitis If gingivitis goes untreated, it can progress to periodontitis — a deeper infection that destroys the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. Symptoms include: - Gums pulling away from your teeth (recession) - Persistent bad breath - Loose teeth - Pain when chewing

Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and is not fully reversible — only manageable.

Other causes of bleeding gums: - Brushing too hard with a hard-bristled brush - New flossing routine (gums need a few days to adapt) - Blood thinning medications - Pregnancy (hormonal changes) - Vitamin C or K deficiency

What to do: Start by improving your brushing technique — use a soft-bristled brush and gentle circular motions for two minutes, twice daily. Floss daily. But also: see your dentist. We can determine whether you have gingivitis or something more serious, and give you a personalized treatment plan.

At Caring Dental of Herndon, we treat gum disease at both our Herndon office. Don't wait — early treatment makes all the difference.