Also known as “gingivorrhagia”, bleeding gums, although common, is not normal or common. When it occurs with brushing, i.e. on a regular basis, it is said to be “chronic”. The chronicity of bleeding gums is always a sign of a more serious condition, generally of an inflammatory type, which must be rapidly managed.

• The first sign you often notice is the pinkish discolouration of the toothpaste spit out when you brush your teeth;
• The gums are darker than usual, softer and more sensitive;
• Gums bleed easily when flossed and can be painful;
• Symptoms of halitosis (bad breath) may also occur.

• The most common cause of bleeding gums when brushing is gingivitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque (or biofilm) on the teeth. It is, therefore, a potential result of inadequate oral hygiene. When plaque is not removed regularly with a toothbrush and dental floss, it solidifies and becomes tartar, a porous substance that promotes the adhesion of an additional layer of plaque. Without proper care and treatment, the inflammation that is caused will worsen and develop into periodontitis;
• Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gingivitis. The inflammation affects the periodontium, the tissues supporting the teeth, and the condition of the gums deteriorates considerably;
• Smoking can also cause bleeding gums due to the pathogens found in tobacco, which irritate the gums;
• The quality of the diet may also be affected, especially if it is deficient in vitamins B or C;
• Hormonal fluctuations, especially those observed during pregnancy or as the regular hormonal cycle progresses, can increase the production of plaque and, consequently, increase the risk of gum bleeding;
• Certain medications, especially those that have side effects such as dry mouth or changes in blood pressure, may also be responsible for bleeding;
• Finally, some specific medical conditions such as diabetes, leukemia and AIDS may increase the sensitivity of the gums to brushing.

Gingival bleeding always indicates an abnormal situation. It is therefore essential to consult a dentist as soon as symptoms appear, in order to prevent the state of your oral health from deteriorating.

Chronic bleeding from the gums is, in itself, only a symptom of a more severe problem. Depending on the diagnosis made by the dentist, different treatments may be offered:

• In case of gingivitis, a complete cleaning including scaling is strongly recommended. Hygiene habits will also have to be adapted accordingly in order to prevent the problem from coming back;
• Measures can be taken between the point of attachment of the tooth and the gum to check for the presence of periodontal pockets, which can form in the case of periodontitis. If so, treatment will be offered. This usually includes root planing and, if necessary, antibiotic treatment.

• By the time bleeding occurs, plaque has already accumulated at the junction of the teeth and gums, causing inflammation of the gum tissue;
• Gingivitis develops. Gingivitis develops. At this stage, it is possible to feel no pain. However, the gums may be darker and more sensitive than usual;
• If the gingivitis is not treated, it may deteriorate and periodontal pockets may develop at the attachment point between the teeth and gums. Pathogens within the pockets cause irreversible damage, especially to the alveolar bone, which can lead to tooth mobility and even tooth loss.

• Inadequate or insufficient oral hygiene;
• Use of tobacco products;
• Hormonal changes.

• The most effective way to prevent gum bleeding is to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing teeth 2-3 times a day, flossing and interdental brushing, to remove the bacterial plaque responsible for the development of gingivitis;
• Regular visits to the dentist for a complete cleaning (including scaling) and a routine check-up are required once or twice a year, or as recommended by the dentist;
• If there is bleeding, you should not stop brushing your teeth, on the contrary. If bleeding does occur, you should not stop brushing your teeth, but rather brush more gently and use an alcohol-free, antimicrobial mouthwash at least once a day;
• Quit smoking: Smoking is a factor that aggravates gum disease. Stop smoking: Smoking is an aggravating factor in gum disease. It is involved in both the onset and progression of the disease. This is why smoking cessation is strongly recommended;
  As soon as symptoms appear, don’t wait and make an appointment with your dentist immediately.