All The Reasons Your Gums Bleed When Brushing Your Teeth
You’re standing in the bathroom merrily brushing your teeth when you look in the mirror and notice that your mouth looks a little, well, redder than usual. Maybe your toothpaste is a bit pink when you spit in the sink, too. This is a sign that your gums bleed as you brush, and it can definitely be a bit jarring.
On the plus side, it’s actually pretty common for your gums to bleed a little as you go about your dental hygiene routine, says Dr. Ivette Soto, DDS, a dentist based in Denton, Texas. It also isn’t necessarily a dental emergency. In many cases, you can simply take note that your gums are bleeding, aim to brush a little gentler next time, and move on with your life. So really, there’s no need to panic.
Why Your Gums Bleed When You Brush Your Teeth
There are quite a few reasons why your gums might bleed when you brush. “If you’re just beginning to experience bleeding gums, it could be caused by something as simple as brushing too hard,” says cosmetic dentist Dr. Joyce Kahng. If you press down on your gums, brush really fast, or use a toothbrush that has stiff bristles, that extra force can damage your gum tissue and make them bleed.
Bloody gums can also be a sign of a gum disease like gingivitis, which Kahng says is one of the most common causes of bleeding gums. “Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that can be caused by a build-up of dental plaque, poor dental hygiene habits, or certain medical conditions,” she tells Bustle. It can cause your gums to be red, swollen, and painful, and even the lightest brushing can make them bleed.
Another possible culprit? Periodontitis, aka a more severe form of gum disease. “Periodontitis is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can lead to an infection of the gums and surrounding tissue.