Many people see a little pink in the sink and ignore it. But healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding is the earliest, most reversible warning sign of gum disease, and catching it now saves you from painful, expensive problems later.
The usual cause: gingivitis
Plaque building up along the gumline inflames the gums, making them red, puffy and prone to bleeding. The good news is that early gingivitis is fully reversible with a professional cleaning and better brushing and flossing.
When it is more serious
If bleeding is paired with receding gums, loose teeth, persistent bad breath, or gaps opening up, the disease may have advanced to periodontitis, which damages the bone holding your teeth. This needs prompt treatment to stop tooth loss.
Other triggers
Pregnancy, diabetes, and certain medications can worsen gum bleeding. If yours does not settle within two weeks of better cleaning, get it assessed.