Gum Bleeding While Brushing? Here’s What It Really Means

June 10, 2025

Gum Bleeding While Brushing? Here’s What It Really Means

Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
10 June, 2025

June -Gum Bleeding While Brushing_ Here’s What It Really Means The gums are delicate bits of tissue that help hold the teeth to the bones securely in the jaw. Healthy gums are a light pink in colour while inflamed gums can look red or purple in colour. Bleeding from gums can occur due to a variety of factors and almost 90% of the Indian population suffers from some form of gum disease, with gingivitis being the most common one. The more advanced forms of gum disease can include periodontitis, which affects the bone and ligaments found in the jaw.

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Brush?

Your gums can bleed due to a few different factors like-

You may be brushing too hard and using the wrong sort of toothbrush. Soft bristled ones are the best and you should never use too much force when brushing.
As much as overdoing it is bad for the gums, not brushing enough is also bad. It can cause tartar or plaque to build up over time and increase your risk of cavity formation too.
Not flossing enough is also bad for the gums.
If you are pregnant or have any other hormonal issues, then you may have bleeding of the gums.
If you are diabetic, then you could have this issue.
If you have gingivitis or periodontitis, then your gums can bleed.
If you don’t get enough of Vitamins B, C and K, then you may have more bleeding than usual.
If you have anaemia of some kind or are on blood thinners.
If you have HIV/AIDS or Herpes.
If you are too stressed very often
If you suffer from cancer of some kind.

Vitamin Deficiency And Gum Bleeding-

Vitamin C deficiency can cause scurvy. Vitamin K is a very important micronutrient needed for your blood to clot, so if you don’t have enough, then your gums may continue to bleed and you will not get better.

Home Remedies For Bleeding Gums-

Some people may have bleeding of the gums but won’t have gum disease. In such cases, the underlying condition causing the issue will need to be treated. Simple home remedies include taking good care of your teeth and tongue- like brushing twice a day, flossing daily, using warm water to rinse your mouth, using a non-alcoholic mouth wash and to stop smoking altogether.

When To See A Dentist For Bleeding Gums?

If you notice your gum bleeding almost on a daily basis for 2 weeks atleast, then it is time you go to the dentist to get it looked at. You may need a deep cleaning session or they may be able to figure out what else is going on in your body.

Conclusion

Bleeding gums are not a sign of some major or deadly underlying medical condition. But, you should know that if they keep bleeding, then you will need to work on stopping them. Proper oral hygiene is very important for reducing your chances of suffering from gum disease or something much more severe in degree. Go to your dentist every year or so and get a thorough check done. They can help you with any stubborn plaque or tartar and the other problems that come along with gingivitis- like bad breath and swollen gums. Make it a habit to massage your gums daily with your finger tips, so that circulation is better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my gums bleed when I brush my teeth?

There are many reasons as to why you may be dealing with bleeding gums. One is obvious- if you brush too hard or use the wrong sort of toothbrush, the other is when you have plaque build up and the last is if you have any nutritional deficiencies and underlying medical causes.

What are the early symptoms of gum disease?

Some early symptoms of gum disease or gingivitis include bad breath, reddish or purplish looking swollen gums and your gums may look like they are not holding the teeth securely.

Can bleeding gums be caused by brushing too hard?

Yes, gum tissue is very delicate and using a hard bristled brush can damage it. You need to use a soft bristled brush and always need to be gentle while brushing. More force is not going to help you, but better technique will.

What vitamins help stop bleeding gums?

Vitamin C, B, D and K are good for stopping and preventing bleeding gums.

When should I see a dentist for bleeding gums?

If you have bleeding gums for over 2 weeks and also are dealing with a fever or other symptoms, then it is time to get checked without any more delay.