6 Reasons Your Gums are Bleeding (And How to Make It Stop)

1. You have gingivitis

When plaque and its cavity causing bacteria build up on your teeth, your gums can become inflamed. The result is gingivitis. Painless and virtually symptom free, gingivitis is easily missed unless you notice bloodstains on your toothbrush or dental floss. “Gingivitis is an ignored disease because it’s not painful. It’s out of sight, out of mind,” says Dr. Doig. But left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, a critical oral condition characterized by the destruction of gum tissue and tooth loss.

Luckily, gingivitis can be reversed, and completely avoided. “Gingivitis is virtually 100 percent preventable,” says Dr. Doig. Meticulous oral hygiene – brushing and flossing – to remove plaque from the teeth, in addition to regular visits to your dentist can keep bleeding gums and gingivitis at bay.