Dental advice · Smile by Dr Noura
Bleeding gums? How to treat gingivitis and keep your gums healthy
Noticing blood when you brush can be worrying. It may be a sign of gingivitis, a common inflammation of the gums. The reassuring news is that plaque-related gingivitis is reversible with effective daily cleaning and professional care where needed.
It can also develop with little discomfort, so painless bleeding still deserves attention. [1]
What causes gingivitis?
The most common cause is dental plaque: a sticky layer of bacteria that collects on teeth, particularly around the gumline. When plaque remains there, it can irritate the gums.
Signs include:
- Bleeding during brushing or cleaning between teeth.
- Swollen, tender or red gums.
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste.
These symptoms should be checked by a dentist, including when they occur in children. [2]
Gingivitis affects the gums without the loss of supporting bone associated with periodontitis. Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, although progression is not inevitable. A dental examination helps establish which condition is present and what care you need. [3, 4]
Treating gingivitis: three practical steps
1. Start with a gum assessment
Your dentist will examine your gums and assess plaque, tartar and signs of inflammation. Treatment should include advice tailored to your mouth, rather than simply recommending the same cleaning routine to everyone.
Where needed, professional cleaning removes plaque and hardened deposits that make home cleaning difficult. The dentist may also identify areas that trap plaque, such as an awkward filling edge. Follow-up checks help establish whether the inflammation has resolved. [3]
2. Brush thoroughly, twice a day
Brush for about two minutes, last thing before bed and once more during the day. Clean the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of every tooth.
For adults, choose fluoride toothpaste containing at least 1,350 parts per million fluoride. After brushing, spit out the excess toothpaste without rinsing immediately with water.
A manual or electric toothbrush can work well. Thorough cleaning and a technique you can maintain matter more than choosing an expensive brush. [5]
3. Clean between your teeth every day
A toothbrush alone cannot clean every space between teeth. Use appropriately sized interdental brushes where they fit, and floss for spaces too narrow for a brush.
Your dental team can demonstrate the technique and help you choose suitable sizes. Pay particular attention around crowded teeth, crowns, fillings and appliances, where cleaning can be more difficult. [6]
Will mouthwash cure gingivitis?
Mouthwash cannot replace brushing, interdental cleaning or professional treatment when needed.
Your dentist may recommend an antiseptic rinse for a particular reason, such as when pain temporarily makes cleaning difficult. Chlorhexidine is intended for short-term use and can cause staining or changes in taste. Follow professional advice about the product and duration, and avoid using mouthwash immediately after brushing. [2, 6, 7]
How can you stop gingivitis coming back?
Professional cleaning is only part of treatment. Keeping plaque under control every day is essential.
Tell your dental team if you smoke or have diabetes, as these factors can affect gum health and the advice you need. Arrange reviews at intervals recommended for your individual circumstances. A fixed cleaning schedule is not a substitute for effective daily care. [3]
For children, parents should help or supervise brushing until at least age seven. If your child has bleeding or sore gums, arrange a dental assessment. [2, 5]
When should you seek urgent help?
Request an urgent dental appointment for very painful or swollen gums, loose teeth, or concerning ulcers, red patches or lumps in the mouth.
If swelling makes breathing or swallowing difficult, seek emergency medical care immediately. These symptoms should not be managed with home care alone. [2, 8]
Take the first step towards healthier gums
If you have noticed bleeding, swelling or persistent bad breath, contact Smile by Dr Noura in Dubai Silicon Oasis to arrange a gum assessment.
We can help you understand what is happening and discuss the next steps for your care.
