You see a little blood when you spit out your toothpaste or floss and think: «I must have pressed too hard». It's very common, but it isn't normal: healthy gums don't bleed. At our Gavà clinic we see cases every day that could have been avoided with a timely diagnosis. Here's why gums bleed and what to do.
Why do gums bleed?
In the vast majority of cases, bleeding is due to inflammation caused by bacterial plaque building up at the gum line. But other factors play a part:
- Insufficient hygiene: especially between the teeth, where the brush doesn't reach.
- Tartar: hardened plaque can only be removed with a professional cleaning.
- Smoking: be aware that it can hide bleeding even when the gum is diseased.
- Hormonal changes: pregnancy, puberty or menopause make gums more sensitive.
- Diabetes and other general conditions.
- Some medications, such as anticoagulants.
- Brushing too hard or with a hard brush.
Gingivitis or periodontitis: how do I know which I have?
Gingivitis is the early stage: the gum is red, swollen and bleeds, but the bone is intact. It's reversible.
If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis: the infection reaches the bone, gums recede and teeth may start to loosen. At this point the damage doesn't reverse by itself, although it can be stopped.
It's hard to tell them apart from the outside. At a check-up we measure the gums and, if needed, take X-rays to see where you are.
What to do if your gums bleed
- Don't stop brushing that area. It's a common mistake: if it bleeds, it needs cleaning better, not less.
- Use a soft brush and brush at least twice a day, with short movements and without pressing.
- Clean between your teeth every day with floss or interdental brushes.
- If bleeding doesn't improve within 1–2 weeks, book a check-up.
Treatment at our Gavà clinic
Depending on severity:
- Gingivitis: a professional cleaning and personalised hygiene advice are usually enough for the gum to recover within a few weeks.
- Periodontitis: scaling and root planing, a deeper cleaning below the gum under local anaesthetic.
Don't let fear hold you back: our treatments are gentle and effective.
Prevention tips
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- Use floss or interdental brushes every day.
- See the dentist every 6 months for a check-up and cleaning.
- If you're pregnant, have your gums checked: it's a higher-risk time.
- If you smoke, tell us: tobacco masks the symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Is it serious if my gums bleed?
It isn't usually serious if treated early, but it's a warning sign not to ignore.
Will a mouthwash stop the bleeding?
Some help temporarily, but they don't remove tartar. Without a professional cleaning, the problem comes back.
Is bleeding gums linked to bad breath?
Yes, they often appear together, because both are due to bacterial build-up.
