Why Are My Gums Bleeding?

Gums that bleed when you brush or floss are not normal — they're usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), the earliest stage of gum disease.

What causes bleeding gums?

The main culprit is plaque build-up along the gumline, which irritates the gums. Other factors include aggressive brushing, certain medications, hormonal changes and smoking.

Why you shouldn't ignore it

Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone supporting your teeth and is a leading cause of tooth loss. The good news: caught early, it's very treatable and often reversible.

How we help

A professional cleaning removes the hardened plaque (tartar) you can't remove at home, and we'll show you simple home-care steps. For more advanced cases, we offer targeted gum disease treatment.