Noticing blood when you brush or floss can be unsettling, but it is more common than many people realise. Bleeding gums causes range from simple plaque build-up to hormonal changes and nutritional factors. While swollen and bleeding gums are often one of the early signs of gum disease, the good news is that with the right care and attention, gum health can usually be improved significantly.

This guide explains the most common reasons gums may bleed, what gingivitis treatment involves, and practical steps you can take at home to support your oral health. If you are looking for professional hygiene support in London, understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your care.

What Are the Most Common Bleeding Gums Causes?

There are several well-recognised bleeding gums causes, and understanding them is the first step towards better gum health. In most cases, bleeding is a sign that the gums are inflamed, often due to the presence of bacterial plaque.

Plaque Build-Up

The most common cause of bleeding gums is plaque — a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth throughout the day. When plaque is not removed effectively through regular brushing and interdental cleaning, it can accumulate along the gumline and cause irritation. Over time, this leads to inflammation, redness, and bleeding. You can learn more about how plaque affects your oral health in our guide on myths and facts about dental plaque.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Inconsistent or incorrect brushing and flossing habits can allow plaque to build up in areas that are difficult to reach. Without thorough daily cleaning, the gums become increasingly vulnerable to irritation and inflammation.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations — particularly during pregnancy, puberty, and menstruation — can make the gums more sensitive and more prone to inflammation. This is sometimes referred to as pregnancy gingivitis and is well documented in dental literature.

Smoking

Smoking affects blood flow to the gums and impairs the body's ability to manage inflammation. Smokers may be more susceptible to gum disease, and healing can be slower. Interestingly, smoking can also mask bleeding, meaning gum problems may go unnoticed for longer.

Vitamin Deficiency and Bleeding Gums

Vitamin deficiency and bleeding gums are closely linked. Deficiencies in vitamin C can affect the integrity of the gum tissue, while low levels of vitamin K can impair blood clotting. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens is important for maintaining healthy gums.

Underlying Systemic Health Influences

Certain systemic conditions, including diabetes and blood disorders, can increase the risk of gum inflammation and bleeding. Some medications, such as blood thinners, may also contribute. If you have an underlying health condition and notice changes in your gums, it is worth mentioning this at your next dental appointment.

Are Bleeding Gums an Early Sign of Gum Disease?

In many cases, yes. Bleeding gums are often among the early signs of gum disease, also known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease, where the gums become inflamed due to plaque accumulation. At this stage, the condition is generally reversible with appropriate care.

Common gum infection symptoms associated with gingivitis include:

• Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
• Red or darkened gum tissue
• Swollen and bleeding gums, particularly around the gumline
• Persistent bad breath
• Gums that feel tender to the touch

If gingivitis is not addressed, it can progress to periodontitis — a more advanced form of gum disease that affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone. Periodontitis is not reversible in the same way as gingivitis, although it can be managed with professional support.

Understanding the difference between early gum inflammation and more advanced periodontal issues is important. Our detailed guide on early signs of gum disease provides further information on what to look out for.

What Is Gingivitis Treatment?

Gingivitis treatment focuses on removing the plaque and tartar (calculus) that cause gum inflammation, and then supporting patients in maintaining effective oral hygiene at home. The aim is to reduce inflammation, stop bleeding, and help the gums return to a healthy state.

Professional Cleaning

A professional dental hygiene appointment is often the first step in treating gingivitis. During this visit, the dental hygienist will carefully remove plaque and hardened tartar from above and below the gumline using specialised instruments. This is sometimes referred to as a scale and polish. For more information about what this involves, visit our teeth cleaning treatments page.

Plaque Removal and Oral Hygiene Instruction

Alongside professional cleaning, your hygienist will provide tailored oral hygiene instruction. This may include advice on brushing technique, the most suitable type of toothbrush, and guidance on using interdental brushes or floss effectively. The goal is to empower you to manage plaque effectively between appointments.

Monitoring and Ongoing Care

Gingivitis treatment is not a one-off event. Regular monitoring is important to ensure that the gums are responding well and that plaque levels remain manageable. Your hygienist may recommend a follow-up schedule based on your individual needs. For those with more advanced concerns, our periodontal treatments page explains the options available.

It is also worth noting that while a dentist can perform some cleaning procedures, a dental hygienist specialises in preventive care and plaque management. Our blog on dentist vs hygienist explores this topic in more detail.

How to Stop Bleeding Gums at Home

If you are wondering how to stop bleeding gums, there are several practical steps you can take at home to support your gum health. While professional care is important, your daily routine plays a significant role in maintaining healthy gums.

Correct Brushing Technique

Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush is essential. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gumline and use gentle, circular motions rather than vigorous scrubbing. Brushing too hard can actually damage the gums and contribute to irritation. An electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor can be a helpful option for those who tend to brush with too much force.

Interdental Cleaning

Brushing alone cleans only around 60% of the tooth surface. Interdental brushes, floss, or water flossers are important for cleaning between the teeth where plaque tends to accumulate. Daily interdental cleaning can make a noticeable difference to gum health over time.

Best Mouthwash for Bleeding Gums

When choosing the best mouthwash for bleeding gums, look for an alcohol-free formulation. Alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out the mouth and irritate already sensitive gums. Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine may be recommended by your dental professional for short-term use, while fluoride-based options can support ongoing oral health. Our guide on the best mouthwashes recommended by dental hygienists offers more detailed advice.

Balanced Diet

Nutrition plays a meaningful role in gum health. Foods rich in vitamin C — such as oranges, strawberries, peppers, and broccoli — support the integrity of gum tissue. Vitamin deficiency and bleeding gums can be addressed, at least in part, by ensuring your diet includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Leafy greens, which are high in vitamin K, can also support healthy blood clotting.

Hydration

Staying well hydrated helps maintain saliva flow, which plays a natural protective role in the mouth. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and supports the remineralisation of tooth enamel. Aim to drink water regularly throughout the day.

Professional Dental Hygiene Cleaning for Bleeding Gums

While good home care is essential, there are times when professional support is needed. Tartar (calculus) — hardened plaque — cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional instruments. If bleeding persists despite consistent oral hygiene, a professional hygiene appointment can help identify and address the underlying cause.

When Home Care Is Not Enough

If you have been brushing and flossing diligently but still experience bleeding, it may be that plaque has hardened into tartar in areas that are difficult to reach at home. A dental hygienist can access these areas and provide a thorough clean that goes beyond what is achievable with a toothbrush.

The Role of the Dental Hygienist

A dental hygienist specialises in preventive oral health care. Their role includes professional cleaning, gum health assessment, oral hygiene instruction, and ongoing monitoring. They work alongside your dentist to ensure your gums and teeth receive comprehensive care. To learn more about what happens during a visit, see our guide on what to expect during a professional teeth cleaning session.

The Importance of Preventive Visits

Regular preventive visits are one of the most effective ways to maintain gum health and catch any concerns early. Rather than waiting for symptoms to develop, routine hygiene appointments help keep plaque under control and allow your hygienist to monitor changes over time. Our preventive treatments page outlines the range of services available.

When Should You Seek Professional Advice?

While occasional minor bleeding during brushing can happen, there are certain situations where it is advisable to seek professional dental advice promptly:

• Persistent bleeding: If your gums bleed regularly for more than two weeks despite good oral hygiene, it is worth having them assessed by a dental professional
• Pain or discomfort: Gum pain, tenderness, or sensitivity that does not improve may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention
• Gum recession: If you notice your gums pulling away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth or root surface, professional assessment is recommended
• Loose teeth: Any looseness or shifting of the teeth should be evaluated promptly, as this may suggest advanced periodontal involvement
• Swelling or pus: These may be signs of infection and should be assessed without delay

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to get in touch with our team for guidance and support.

How Often Should You Book Hygiene Appointments?

The frequency of hygiene appointments varies from person to person and depends on individual risk factors, gum health, and oral hygiene habits. As a general guide, many dental professionals recommend hygiene visits every three to six months. However, some individuals — particularly those with a history of gum disease, smokers, or those with systemic health conditions — may benefit from more frequent appointments.

Your dental hygienist can recommend a personalised schedule based on your specific needs after an initial assessment. Regular appointments not only help keep your gums healthy but also give your hygienist the opportunity to monitor any changes and provide updated advice. For more guidance on appointment frequency, our blog on professional dental cleaning frequency offers helpful insights.

Taking a proactive approach to your gum health is one of the most valuable steps you can take for your overall wellbeing. Whether you are managing early signs of gum inflammation or simply want to maintain a healthy smile, preventive hygiene care can make a meaningful difference. If you have concerns about bleeding gums or would like to book a hygiene appointment, seeking professional dental advice is a positive first step.