My gums have been bleeding when I brush, what should I do?

David Zhukovsky - Verified provider

I would recommend to switch to a soft bristle brush. Its not about how hard you brush, its about how long you brush. Bleeding can be a sign of gingivitis. If you are not brushing very well and there is build up/plaque/tartar or not flossing well, or brushing too hard... all of this can cause bleeding. I would stick to a softer brush, electric brush is helpful to make sure you are cleaning efficiently. Some electric brushes even have pressure sensors that light up red when you are brushing too hard, I find that very helpful for myself. Flossing is important, if you dont floss at least try a water flosser. It isn't better than flossing but its better than nothing. And lastly, visit your dentist more regularly, often times a good dental cleaning can get you back on track.

venturous

Thanks, that makes sense. I see you're not too far from me so I'll call to make an appointment!

nyc4life

Thanks doc. i'll keep that in mind

Boris Karachun - Verified provider

Hey nyc4life! Looks like were both in the big apple. I will have to slightly disagree with your dentist there. Although water flossing is better than no flossing, I wouldn't go so far as to say its better than good ol' fashioned floss. The cleaning effect of having an actual piece of floss pull through the inter-tooth space, and hug each tooth, simply can't be beat. That being said, if it's really not your thing, continue with the water flosser! And actually, if you have a bridge, or a wisdom tooth in the back that keeps catching food, a water flosser can be a life-saver for that.

nyc4life

If you hate flossing like me, try a water flosser. My dentist said it's a legit alternative and I actually enjoy using it. Total game changer for lazy flossers.

Boris Karachun - Verified provider

Hey venturous. Thanks for posting. Gum (gingival) bleeding can be caused by different things. To start, I don't think your medium brush is causing the bleeding, although I do recommend you get a soft brush, and use it gently, as rough brushing can cause gingival recession and be too abrasive to your enamel. Although I can't tell you without seeing you in person, I'm going to guess that the bleeding is either from gingivitis, which is inflamed gums, caused by not flossing, and/or from too much tartar being stuck to your teeth, as you stated it's been a while since your last cleaning. I recommend you stop by your dentist, so he can check those gums and teeth, and get you back to your non-gum bleeding self! fyi, were taking new patients