Bleeding gums when you brush aren’t normal. They’re usually the first sign of gum disease, which affects a large share of adults worldwide. Caught early, it’s reversible. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Imagine noticing pink in the sink every time you brush. You brush more gently, assuming you’re brushing too hard. Years later your gums have pulled back, a tooth feels loose, and your dentist explains you have advanced gum disease. Those early bleeds were the warning.
Signs
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath or a bad taste
- Gums pulling back from the teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
Treatment and prevention
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, angling the brush at the gumline
- Clean between teeth daily
- Professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist
- Deeper cleaning for advanced disease
- Stopping smoking, a major risk factor
But does gum disease affect the rest of the body?
Gum disease and diabetes affect each other: high blood sugar worsens gum disease, and treating gum disease can help blood sugar control. Gum disease has also been linked to heart disease and pregnancy complications, although cause and effect are still being studied. Healthy gums are part of overall health.
Your next step: If your gums bleed, don’t stop brushing. Brush gently but thoroughly, clean between your teeth daily, and book a dental check within the next month.
Sources: World Health Organization (Oral health), NHS (Gum disease), American Dental Association, European Federation of Periodontology. This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from your own dentist, nurse or doctor.
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