Hey, Brianna here from Smile Lounge in Narre Warren, Melbourne.
The other day, Jake from Dandenong came in for a check-up and mentioned something that a lot of people experience, and that is bleeding gums while brushing or flossing. He wanted to know if he should be worried. If that sounds familiar, let’s talk about what’s going on and what you can do about it.
You see, healthy gums shouldn’t bleed. If they do, it’s usually a sign that something isn’t quite right. The most common cause? Gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis or it’s older sibling, periodontitis. When plaque and bacteria build up around the gumline, your gums become irritated, puffy, and prone to bleeding. The good news? Gingivitis is completely reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning.
Another reason could be brushing too hard. Your gums are delicate, so scrubbing them aggressively with a hard-bristled toothbrush can actually cause irritation. The trick is to use a soft-bristled brush and gentle, circular motions.
If your gums are still bleeding despite good brushing and flossing habits, it could be a sign of something more serious, like periodontal disease. This is when inflammation progresses, leading to permanent gum recession, jaw bone loss, and, in severe cases, tooth loss. That’s why early intervention is so important!
So, if your gums are bleeding, don’t ignore it. Your body is trying to tell you something. Simply call us or DM us to organise a check-up, and let’s keep your gums and teeth healthy and strong.
