Why Are My Gums Bleeding When I Brush?

Seeing blood on your toothbrush or in the sink after brushing is a warning sign that should not be ignored. In the vast majority of cases, bleeding gums indicate gingivitis — the earliest and most treatable stage of gum disease. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW, Oral Health and Dental Care in Australia, 2023), approximately 22 per cent of Australian adults have moderate to severe periodontal disease, and a much higher proportion have gingivitis that they may not recognise. At Townsville Dental Clinic, we treat gum disease at every stage, and the key message is simple: the earlier you act, the easier and less expensive treatment will be.

What Causes Gums to Bleed?

Gingivitis: The Most Common Cause

Gingivitis is caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque — a soft, sticky film that forms on teeth within hours of brushing. When plaque is not removed thoroughly, the bacteria within it produce toxins that irritate the gum tissue, triggering an inflammatory response. This inflammation causes the gums to become:

• Red instead of a healthy pale pink
• Swollen and puffy along the gum line
• Tender to touch
• Prone to bleeding during brushing or flossing

Gingivitis is entirely reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene. However, if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis — a more serious condition involving destruction of the bone and ligaments that support your teeth.

Other Causes of Bleeding Gums

While gingivitis accounts for the majority of cases, other causes include:

• Hormonal changes — pregnancy gingivitis affects up to 75 per cent of pregnant women due to increased progesterone levels amplifying the gum’s inflammatory response to plaque
• Medications — blood-thinning medications (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel) and some anti-epileptic drugs can increase gum bleeding
• Vitamin deficiencies — severe deficiency of vitamin C (scurvy) or vitamin K can cause gum bleeding, though this is uncommon in Australia
• Aggressive brushing — using a hard-bristled toothbrush or scrubbing too vigorously can traumatise gum tissue
• Poorly fitting dentures or appliances — chronic friction irritates the gums
• Systemic conditions — leukaemia, thrombocytopenia, and uncontrolled diabetes can all manifest as bleeding gums

When Bleeding Gums Are Serious

Most bleeding gums are caused by gingivitis and respond well to treatment. However, you should seek prompt assessment if you experience any of the following:

• Bleeding that does not stop after applying gentle pressure for a few minutes
• Loose teeth or teeth that have shifted position
• Pus visible between your teeth and gums
• Persistent bad breath that does not improve with brushing
• Gum recession causing teeth to appear longer than before
• Bleeding accompanied by unexplained bruising elsewhere on your body
• Bleeding gums along with fatigue, fever, or frequent infections

The last two points may indicate a blood disorder or systemic condition that requires medical investigation, including blood tests.

How We Treat Bleeding Gums at Townsville Dental Clinic

Step 1: Assessment

We begin with a thorough gum assessment, including:

• Periodontal probing — measuring the depth of the pocket between each tooth and gum (healthy: 1–3 mm; gingivitis: 4 mm; periodontitis: 5 mm or more)
• Digital X-rays — to assess bone levels around the teeth
• Medical history review — to identify medications or conditions that may contribute

Step 2: Professional Cleaning

For gingivitis, a scale and clean removes plaque and tartar (calculus) from above and below the gum line. This is usually completed in a single appointment lasting 45 to 60 minutes.

For periodontitis, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) is performed under local anaesthesia, typically over two to four appointments, treating one or two quadrants of the mouth per visit.

Step 3: Home Care Plan

We provide personalised instructions on brushing technique, floss or interdental brush selection, and any additional products (such as chlorhexidine mouthwash for short-term use). Consistent home care is essential — professional cleaning removes existing tartar, but only daily brushing and flossing prevent new plaque from accumulating.

Step 4: Recall Schedule

Patients with a history of gum disease are placed on a tailored recall schedule — typically every three to six months — to monitor gum health and prevent recurrence.

Prevention: How to Stop Gums Bleeding

• Brush twice daily for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush using gentle circular motions
• Floss or use interdental brushes daily — clean between every tooth
• Do not skip dental checkups — professional cleaning removes tartar that home care cannot
• Quit smoking — smoking masks gum bleeding by restricting blood flow, hiding the signs of disease while damage continues underneath
• Manage diabetes — uncontrolled blood sugar significantly increases the risk and severity of gum disease

Related Services

• Gum Disease Treatment
• Dental Cleaning Cost in Townsville

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