Have you ever noticed a little bit of pink in the sink when you brush or floss your teeth? Many people think bleeding gums are “normal,” but the truth is — they’re not.

At Desert Sage Family Dental, we hear this question all the time: “My gums bleed when I brush — should I be worried?” The short answer is yes — but the good news is, it’s something you can fix with the right care and habits.

Bleeding Gums Are a Sign — Not Just an Annoyance

Healthy gums don’t bleed. If yours do, it’s usually a sign that your gums are inflamed due to plaque and bacteria building up along and under the gumline. This early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis.

When plaque is not fully removed by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which irritates your gums. Over time, this causes swelling, redness, and bleeding when you brush or floss.

Should I Stop Flossing if My Gums Bleed?

A lot of people make this mistake: they see blood when they floss, so they stop flossing. But that actually makes things worse.

Flossing regularly helps remove the plaque and bacteria that cause bleeding in the first place. With daily flossing and proper brushing, your gums can heal and the bleeding should stop within a few days to a few weeks.

Other Possible Causes of Bleeding Gums

While gingivitis is the most common cause, other factors can play a role too:

• Brushing too hard with a stiff toothbrush
• Poorly fitting dental work or appliances
• Vitamin deficiencies (like Vitamin C)
• Certain medications that affect how your blood clots

This is why it’s always best to ask your dentist if bleeding gums don’t improve with good home care.

What Should You Do If Your Gums Bleed?

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Gentle brushing is more effective than scrubbing hard.
• Floss daily. Be gentle but thorough — and stick with it, even if you see a little blood at first.
• Keep up with professional cleanings. Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar that you can’t reach at home.
• Visit us if bleeding persists. If your gums continue to bleed or you notice signs like bad breath, receding gums, or loose teeth, you may have more advanced gum disease that needs treatment.

Healthy Gums, Healthy Smile

Your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. If they bleed, don’t ignore it — let’s fix it together before it turns into something more serious.

At Desert Sage Family Dental, we’re here to help you keep your gums healthy and your smile strong for life.

Ready to get your gum health back on track? Call us to schedule your next exam and cleaning today.