Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? It is common, but it is not normal — bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gum disease. Caught early, it is easily treatable. Left untreated, it can lead to receding gums, bad breath and even tooth loss. Here is what you need to know, and how we treat it at Ur’s Toothfully in Kolkata.
Why are my gums bleeding?
The most common cause of bleeding gums is a build-up of plaque and tartar along the gum line, which irritates and inflames the gums. This early stage is called gingivitis. Other contributing factors include aggressive brushing, smoking, hormonal changes, diabetes, certain medications and vitamin deficiencies.
Gingivitis vs periodontitis
Gingivitis is the mild, reversible stage — red, swollen gums that bleed easily. If it is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the infection spreads below the gum line, damaging the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontitis can cause gum recession, loose teeth and eventual tooth loss, so early treatment matters.
Warning signs to watch for
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Gums that are pulling away from the teeth
- Loose teeth or a change in your bite
How gum disease is treated
Treatment depends on the stage. Early gingivitis is usually reversed with a professional scaling and cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, plus improved home care. More advanced cases may need deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) or laser-assisted advanced gum treatment to clean below the gum line and help the gums heal. Our specialists will assess the severity and recommend the least invasive effective option.
How to keep your gums healthy
Brush twice a day with a soft brush, floss daily, avoid tobacco, and have a professional cleaning and check-up every six months. Healthy gums are the foundation of healthy teeth — and of many other treatments, from implants to veneers.
Frequently asked questions
Is gum disease reversible? Early-stage gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and good home care. Advanced periodontitis can be controlled but not fully reversed, which is why early treatment is important.
Does gum treatment hurt? Cleaning is comfortable, and deeper treatments are done with local anaesthesia so you feel little to nothing.
Can bleeding gums cause tooth loss? If untreated and allowed to progress to periodontitis, yes — which is why you should not ignore bleeding gums.
Noticing bleeding or swollen gums? Book a gum check-up at Ur’s Toothfully, or call +91 78900 08331 to visit our Park Street, Salt Lake or New Alipore clinic.
