Bleeding gums when you brush or floss is the most common early sign of gum disease. The good news: caught early, it's reversible with hygienist treatment and a small change to your at-home routine.
By far the most common cause. Plaque builds up at the gum line, the gums become inflamed, and they bleed when brushed or flossed. Fully reversible with proper hygienist treatment and improved technique at home.
Aggressive brushing or hard bristles can damage the gum tissue and cause bleeding. Switch to a soft-bristled brush and aim to massage the gum line rather than scrub.
The first week or two of regular flossing often causes bleeding as inflamed gums heal. This usually settles within 7 to 14 days.
Pregnancy, puberty and the menopause can all increase gum sensitivity and bleeding. Often manageable with extra hygienist visits during the at-risk periods.
If the bleeding is heavy, persistent, comes with bad breath, gum recession or loose teeth, the gum disease has likely progressed beyond the early reversible stage. This needs deeper hygienist treatment.
Some medications (blood thinners), vitamin deficiencies and systemic conditions (diabetes, leukaemia) can also cause bleeding gums. Worth a check-up rather than self-diagnosing.
Standard scale and polish.
Deeper cleaning below the gum line for established gum disease.
Stain removal alongside cleaning.
Specialist periodontal referral for the most advanced cases.
Let's take the first step towards your healthiest, most confident smile. Join our Hornchurch, Essex dental practice today.
Book nowMost commonly because plaque has built up at the gum line and is causing inflammation, which is fully reversible with a hygienist visit and improved at-home technique.
No - keep brushing, switch to a soft brush, and the bleeding usually settles within a week as the inflammation reduces.
No, receded gums do not regrow on their own, but stopping the cause (gum disease) prevents further recession and protects the teeth long-term.
A simple hygienist visit at Hacton Dental Care is £80, with an advanced visit (deeper clean for gum disease) at £130.
No, you can book a hygienist appointment directly without seeing the dentist first, although for established gum disease a combined appointment is often the most efficient approach.
Yes, children's hygiene visits at Hacton Dental Care are £40 and include a clean, polish and oral hygiene advice tailored to their age.
Hacton Dental Care is in Hornchurch and a ten minute drive from Upminster, Romford, Elm Park and Rainham, with free on-site parking.
Closed daily 1.00pm – 2.00pm for lunch.
Report feedback on this page
