01
Examination
We measure gum pocket depths, check for bone loss, and assess the overall health of your gum tissue.
← All Symptoms
Gum health
My Gums Are Bleeding
Bleeding gums are common — but they are not normal. Healthy gums don't bleed. If yours do, it's a signal your gums need attention.
What is this condition?
Gum bleeding occurs when the tissue surrounding your teeth becomes inflamed, weakened, or infected. The most common cause is gingivitis — the earliest stage of gum disease — which is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which causes permanent bone and tooth loss.
Why might I have this?
- Plaque buildup along the gumline causing gingivitis
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Not flossing regularly, allowing bacteria to accumulate between teeth
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, puberty, menopause)
- Certain medications that thin the blood or cause gum overgrowth
- Vitamin C or K deficiency
- Poorly fitting dentures or dental appliances
What symptoms should I watch for?
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with brushing
- Loose teeth or teeth that have shifted
- Pus between the teeth and gums
What happens during treatment?
02
X-Rays
Bone loss from gum disease is only visible on X-rays. We use these to determine the extent of any damage.
03
Professional Cleaning
A thorough cleaning removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. For advanced disease, scaling and root planing may be needed.
04
Home Care Plan
We provide personalized brushing and flossing guidance and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your gum health.
Will it hurt?
A routine cleaning is generally comfortable. If your gums are very inflamed, we may apply a topical anesthetic. Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) is performed with local anesthesia so you feel no discomfort.
How long does it take?
A standard cleaning takes 45–60 minutes. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may require two visits of about an hour each, treating one side of the mouth per visit.
What happens after treatment?
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss at least once daily, especially before bed
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Quit smoking — tobacco dramatically worsens gum disease
What happens if I don't treat it?
Gingivitis that isn't treated progresses to periodontitis — a serious infection that destroys the bone supporting your teeth. Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Research also links it to heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.
Possible treatments
Preventive Cleanings
Professional cleanings remove the plaque and tartar that cause gum disease.
Learn morePeriodontal Therapy
Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) treats gum disease below the gumline.
Learn moreDental Exams
Regular exams catch gum disease early, when it's easiest to treat.
Learn moreDo you perform this at Essential Dental Care?
Yes. We provide preventive cleanings, periodontal evaluations, and scaling and root planing at Essential Dental Care. For advanced gum disease requiring surgical intervention, we may refer you to a periodontist.
Schedule an Evaluation
Don't wait — early treatment is almost always simpler, less expensive, and more comfortable. We're here to help.