What's causing my gums to bleed?

Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing, are not to be ignored. Most often, this is due to inflammation of the gums, called gingivitis, caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria in the gum line.

If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into more serious periodontal disease, leading to loosening of the teeth.

Bleeding can also be accentuated by over-aggressive brushing, unsuitable toothbrushes, smoking, hormonal changes or certain medications.

The good news is that with good oral hygiene, gentle but effective brushing, daily flossing and regular visits to the dentist, it's possible to stop bleeding and regain healthy gums.

If your gums bleed frequently, it's important to seek help to identify the cause and prevent the problem from worsening.