A little pink in the sink when you brush or floss—many people assume it's normal. Maybe you're brushing too hard, or it's just one of those things. The truth? Bleeding gums are usually a sign that something isn't right. In most cases, they indicate gingivitis—the earliest stage of gum disease. And while gingivitis is reversible, ignoring it can lead to periodontitis, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. Here's why bleeding gums should never be ignored.
Bleeding Gums Are Not Normal
Healthy gums don't bleed. When they do, it's typically because they're inflamed—and inflammation is the body's response to bacteria in plaque. The bacteria irritate the gum tissue, causing it to swell and become more fragile. Brushing or flossing then triggers bleeding. The bleeding isn't from brushing "too hard"—it's from the underlying inflammation. If your gums bleed, your body is sending a signal: pay attention.
What Bleeding Often Means: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums without bone loss. It's caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. At this stage, the damage is reversible. A professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, combined with improved brushing and flossing at home, can restore gum health. The bleeding can stop. The gums can become firm and pink again. But only if you act.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. The infection moves below the gumline. The bone that supports your teeth begins to break down. Pockets form. Teeth can become loose. By then, the damage is permanent—bone doesn't grow back on its own. Treatment can stop the progression, but it can't undo what's already lost. The earlier you address bleeding gums, the better.
Other Possible Causes
While gum disease is the most common cause, bleeding can sometimes be linked to:
- Medications (e.g., blood thinners)
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Brushing with a hard-bristled brush or improper technique
- A new flossing routine (temporary bleeding can occur as gums adapt)
Your dentist can help determine the cause. But in the vast majority of cases, bleeding points to the need for better oral hygiene and possibly a professional cleaning.
What You Should Do
- Don't stop brushing or flossing — That will make things worse. Be gentle but thorough.
- Schedule a dental exam — Your dentist can evaluate your gums, measure pocket depths, and recommend treatment.
- Improve your home care — Brush twice daily for two minutes, floss daily, and use proper technique. Your hygienist can show you how.
- Get a professional cleaning — Plaque hardens into tartar, which only a professional can remove. Regular cleanings are essential.
The Bottom Line
Bleeding gums are a warning sign—not a minor inconvenience. Take them seriously. Schedule an appointment, get a cleaning, and step up your home care. Your future self will thank you for the teeth you kept.