Inflamed gums
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria. Buildup near the gumline can irritate the gums and cause gingivitis. A dental check distinguishes this from disease affecting the supporting tissues.
Your teeth & gums · An explanation in under a minute
Why Are My Gums Bleeding?
What it can mean—and what to do next.
Read the video transcript
You brush every day. So why are your gums bleeding? Plaque is a film of bacteria. At the gumline, it can trigger inflammation, so gums bleed more easily. Gingivitis inflames gums without itself destroying attachment or bone. Periodontitis damages that deeper support. Your dentist or hygienist measures from the gum edge to the base of the space beside the tooth. Depth alone is not a diagnosis. Bleeding, attachment measurements, health history, and X-rays when needed complete the picture. Those findings guide your cleaning, treatment and follow-up. Brush gently and clean between teeth daily. Get recurring bleeding checked; medicines and other conditions can also contribute.
What can cause bleeding?
Irritation from cleaning
Brushing too hard can irritate gums. Bleeding can also happen when you start cleaning between your teeth. Keep cleaning gently and discuss bleeding that persists.
Health or medicine changes
Pregnancy-related changes and medicines such as blood thinners can contribute. Tell your dentist about your health and medicines; don’t stop a prescribed medicine on your own.
Further reading: American Dental Association: bleeding gums.
Your next step
Keep caring for your gums.
- Brush gently twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth daily. Ask your dental team to show you a comfortable technique.
- Book a dental check if bleeding keeps happening or concerns you.
At your appointment
What does your dentist look for?
The examination puts the bleeding in context. Your dentist may check:
- Where and how often the bleeding happens.
- Plaque, tartar, inflammation and changes in the gumline.
- Measurements around your teeth and, when needed, X-rays of the supporting bone.
- Your health history and medicines.
A related question
Does this mean I need a deep cleaning?
Not necessarily. Treatment depends on what the examination finds. Our longer video explains the measurements, treatment and follow-up.
Watch the deep-cleaning guideSources & video credits
- ADA: Bleeding gums
- NIDCR: Periodontal (gum) disease
- NHS: Gum disease
- NHS: Urgent and emergency dental care
Sources checked October 17, 2026. Video uses a fictional AI-generated patient, realistic dental illustrations, animation and generated narration. Production credits.