Bleeding gums typically occur when flossing or brushing teeth and while a small amount of blood may not seem like anything to worry about, when this happens consistently you shouldn’t ignore it. This can happen if pregnant or if you suffer from gingivitis. If you’ve recently changed your oral care routine, your gums could also bleed.

Gingivitis

As mentioned, gingivitis is one of the leading causes of gum disease. Plaque along the teeth and gum line that have not been fully removed can lead to an infection in the gums. For those with gingivitis, gums will be swollen or tender.

Various Medications

Bleeding gums can be caused by several different medications including medicine to reduce blood clotting.

Flossing Routine

If you’ve recently switched up your flossing routine this could lead to bleeding gums. If you forgot to floss for a few days or if you’ve started flossing more regularly, you could notice bleeding gums. However, the bleeding should subside in one week.

New Toothbrush

Changing from a soft-bristled brush to a firm toothbrush is another major cause of bleeding gums. Make sure to ask your dentist which type of toothbrush is best for you at your next appointment.

Pregnancy

Many pregnant women have swollen gums or bleeding teeth while brushing. This is due to hormonal changes, changing the way our body responds to bacteria. Be sure to have a dental checkup and brush regularly to prevent gum issues from growing.

If you notice your gums are bleeding but don’t know why, contact Lindner Dental at 603.624. 3900. We provide infant dental care, pediatric dentistry, Invisalign and more!