Bleeding Gums? Why You Shouldn't Ignore Them

We know the feeling. You’re brushing your teeth, you spit into the sink, and suddenly things look a bit… pink. It’s tempting to think you’ve just brushed a bit too hard or that it’s “just one of those things.” But the team here at Spring Hill Dental wants you to know that healthy gums shouldn’t bleed.

Think of your gums as the foundation for your house. If the foundation is leaky or crumbling, the whole structure is at risk. Bleeding is often the first “alarm bell” your body rings to tell us that bacteria (plaque) is irritating your gum line.

What’s actually going on?

• 🩸 Gingivitis: This is the early stage of gum disease. The good news? It’s usually reversible with a professional clean and better flossing.

• 🦷 Plaque & Tartar: When plaque isn’t brushed away, it hardens into tartar (calculus) that only a dentist can remove. This “rock” keeps bacteria trapped against your gums, causing constant bleeding.

• 🪥 Technique: Sometimes, you’re just being too enthusiastic! Using a hard-bristled brush or “scrubbing” instead of gentle circles can damage the delicate tissue.

If left untreated, simple bleeding can turn into periodontitis – where the gums pull away from the teeth, leading to loose teeth or even tooth loss. We’re here to help you catch it early so you can keep your smile exactly where it belongs.

Ready to smile? If your gums are acting up, don’t wait for them to “fix themselves.” Give us a bell or book a gentle check-up today. We’ll get to the bottom of it together.