Oftentimes you notice a reddish tinge in the sink after you brushed your teeth. This happens mostly when you have bleeding gums. Bleeding gums should not be taken lightly, because this is a sign of inflammation of gums, the condition called as gingivitis. Unlike what is said on popular belief, it is not a normal condition. 

Gingivitis or bleeding gums can be easily treated. However, bleeding gums can also occur in more serious health problems like periodontitis (gum Infection), diabetes, HIV and other immune-compromised diseases. If you believe it is happening because of improper oral hygiene then do the same and wait & watch. 

If the gum bleeding still occurs after 2 weeks of proper brushing and flossing, in addition if you have other symptoms like foul smell from mouth, then it could be something more serious and you must be checked by your dentist. 

Listed below are some simple and easy steps to stop bleeding from gums-

  • Brushing your teeth regularly: Brushing is the best way to keep your mouth healthy.  It is recommended to brush 2 to 3 times a day after meals. Your toothbrush and toothpaste play important roles in oral care. Choose a fluoride containing toothpaste. Teeth and gums get additional protection from fluoride. Use a soft bristled toothbrush. Use the brush in circular motions instead of back and forth. The convenience of back and forth motion increases the chances of gum bleeding  because gums get hurt due to strong brushing strokes.
  • Do not skip flossing when you are in rush in the morning. Keeping between the teeth as clean as possible makes your gums healthy. It is advised to floss your teeth once a day, preferably at night before going to bed. If you do not know how to use floss properly, ask your dentists, he will be happy to teach you the correct way of flossing.
  • Mouth wash can be used after brushing. Your dentist will tell you the alcohol free and fluoridated mouthwash. Alcohol in mouthwash can only stimulate bleeding from gums and dry mouth as well.
  • Do not forget to brush your tongue. Tongue is an easy place for bacteria to grow and multiply. If bacteria become too large in number, they can easily attack the gums and teeth. The proper way of cleaning tongue is by brushing the top surface of tongue with back to front motion using a toothbrush.
  • Choose to have a healthy diet. Diet is a major factor in keeping your gums and teeth in good condition. High fiber and low sugar diet are the best choices of food you can take in order to keep your mouth healthy. Sweet and sticky food encourages plaque deposition and bacterial encroachment on your gums and teeth. Dentists recommend food rich in vitamin B and C as well calcium for healthy teeth and gums.

Please note, even if you are maintaining oral hygiene well at home, it may not be sufficient to keep your teeth and gums healthy. 

Nothing can replace a professional dental cleaning or scaling which removes stony hard deposits from deep below the gums. Therefore, you still need to go to the dentist at least once in six months. Your dentist will check the condition of your gums by using special tools and measure the depth of your gums. If he or she finds sign of gum disease, you may need to take antibiotic medicines to prevent further bone loss around the teeth.