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Patient guide

Bleeding Gums: What It Means and What to Do

Gums that bleed when you brush are common — but they’re telling you something. The good news is that early gum problems usually improve with the right care.

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The most common cause of bleeding gums is plaque building up along the gumline, which makes the gums inflamed (gingivitis). Other factors include smoking, diabetes, pregnancy, some medications and brushing too hard.

Possible causes to learn about

Tap a card to jump to details. Only a dentist can confirm the cause after an examination.

Gum diseaseInflammation of the gums, from early gingivitis to periodontitis.Bad breathPersistent unpleasant breath that doesn’t improve with brushing.

Gum disease

What it is

Plaque along the gumline inflames the gums. Early gum disease is often reversible; advanced gum disease affects the bone supporting the teeth.

Common symptoms

  • Bleeding when brushing
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Loose teeth

Possible causes

  • Plaque and tartar build-up
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Hormonal changes
  • Some medications

When to seek care

Book a gum assessment if gums bleed regularly.

What treatment may involve

Professional cleaning, deep cleaning below the gumline and a personalised home-care plan.

Gum pockets are measured, then cleaning is carried out — with local anaesthetic for deep cleaning.

What it may feel like & recovery

Deep cleaning is usually comfortable with anaesthetic; gums can be tender for a few days.

Bleeding usually reduces over the following weeks with good home care.

No — gentle, thorough cleaning is part of healing. See a dentist to find the cause.

Learn more: Gum Treatment General Dentistry

Bad breath

What it is

Most persistent bad breath comes from bacteria in the mouth — on the tongue, between teeth or in gum pockets.

Common symptoms

  • Bad breath that returns after brushing
  • Bad taste
  • Coated tongue

Possible causes

  • Plaque and gum disease
  • Food trapping
  • Dry mouth
  • Smoking
  • Sometimes non-dental causes

When to seek care

If bad breath persists despite good brushing and interdental cleaning.

What treatment may involve

Professional cleaning, gum treatment and tongue-cleaning advice. Your dentist may suggest seeing a doctor if a non-dental cause is suspected.

Examination of teeth, gums and tongue to find likely sources.

What it may feel like & recovery

Cleaning is usually comfortable.

Most people notice improvement quickly with treatment and good home care.

Mouthwash can mask odour temporarily; treating the cause works better.

Learn more: Gum Treatment General Dentistry

Common causes

  • Plaque and tartar along the gumline
  • Not cleaning between teeth
  • Hormonal changes, including pregnancy
  • Smoking (which can hide bleeding while gum disease continues)
  • Diabetes
  • Certain medicines such as blood thinners
  • A hard toothbrush or aggressive brushing

What you can do now

  • Keep brushing twice daily with a soft brush — gently along the gumline
  • Clean between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes
  • Don’t stop cleaning because of bleeding; gentle cleaning helps gums heal
  • Book a check-up to have tartar removed and the cause checked

When bleeding gums need prompt attention

  • Bleeding that doesn’t improve after two weeks of good cleaning
  • Gums that are swollen, painful or have pus
  • Loose teeth or changes in your bite
  • Bleeding with unexplained bruising or feeling unwell — see a doctor too

This information is for general guidance only and does not replace a professional dental examination. Your dentist will assess your condition and treatment options may vary.

Have questions? Talk to our team.

Tell us what you’re experiencing. We’ll help you understand your options and how soon you should be seen.

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Frequently asked questions

Some bleeding when you first start flossing can happen, but it should settle within a week or two. Ongoing bleeding should be checked.

Related treatments

Gum Disease TreatmentCare for bleeding, swollen or receding gums.General DentistryMaintain your oral health with check-ups, cleaning and fillings.

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