1297 Hembree Rd Suite 202 
Noticing blood when you brush or floss can be alarming—and it’s definitely not something you should ignore. Bleeding gums are a common warning sign that something isn’t quite right with your oral health. At Mitzi Morris, DMD, PC in Roswell, we help patients understand the causes of bleeding gums and guide them on how to protect their smile before bigger problems develop.
If you’ve noticed pink in the sink recently, here’s everything you need to know about what bleeding gums could mean and what you should do next.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
While it’s easy to dismiss occasional gum bleeding, persistent bleeding almost always points to an underlying issue that needs attention. Some of the most common causes include:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. It often presents with swollen, red gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to accumulate and irritate the gums.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can cause gums to become more sensitive and prone to bleeding due to hormonal fluctuations.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Low levels of vitamin C or vitamin K can make your gums more vulnerable to inflammation and bleeding.
- Medications: Blood thinners and certain other medications can increase your risk of gum bleeding.
- Aggressive Brushing or Flossing: Using too much pressure or a hard-bristled toothbrush can traumatize gum tissue.
- Systemic Health Issues: Conditions like diabetes, blood disorders, or immune system diseases can affect gum health and increase bleeding risk.
Why Early Intervention Is So Important
Gum disease is extremely common. Studies estimate that nearly half of American adults over the age of 30 show signs of periodontal disease. In its early stage (gingivitis), gum disease is reversible. But if bleeding gums are ignored, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
Even more concerning, untreated gum disease has been linked to systemic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes complications, and even pregnancy risks. That’s why bleeding gums are never something to brush off.
Recognizing Other Warning Signs
Bleeding gums often don’t show up alone. If you notice any of these additional symptoms, it’s even more important to schedule a dental visit:
- Gums that are swollen, tender, or red
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gumline
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in your bite
At Mitzi Morris, DMD, PC in Roswell, we perform comprehensive evaluations to get to the root of the problem and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
How We Treat Bleeding Gums
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the issue, but some of the most common solutions include:
- Professional Dental Cleaning: Removing plaque and tartar buildup around the gumline to eliminate inflammation.
- Improved Home Care: Educating patients on the right brushing and flossing techniques to promote gum health.
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and bacteria from beneath the gumline if gum disease is present.
- Medication Therapy: In some cases, antimicrobial mouth rinses or localized antibiotic treatments can help manage infection.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Recommendations may include better nutrition, managing medical conditions, and smoking cessation.
Our team in Roswell works closely with each patient to create a plan that’s customized to their unique needs and health goals.
Preventing Bleeding Gums Before They Start
The best way to deal with bleeding gums is to prevent them altogether. Some simple habits can make a major difference:
- Brush gently but thoroughly twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between the teeth and along the gumline.
- Use a therapeutic mouthwash recommended by your dentist to help control bacteria.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and K, which are essential for healthy gums.
- Stay hydrated to promote saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
- Avoid smoking, which is a major risk factor for gum disease.
- Schedule regular dental checkups at least twice a year for cleanings and early detection of any problems.
Preventive care is a partnership. The more consistent you are with home care and dental visits, the healthier your gums and teeth will be.
Special Considerations for Roswell Patients
Living in Roswell, GA, many of our patients lead active lifestyles and busy family schedules. It’s easy to let small dental symptoms slide. But as Dr. Mitzi Morris often reminds patients, taking care of bleeding gums today saves you from costly, more invasive treatments tomorrow.
Routine dental visits also allow us to check for subtle signs of systemic health issues that sometimes first appear in the mouth. Healthy gums are not just about a healthy smile—they’re part of your total wellness.
When to Schedule an Appointment
If your gums bleed regularly—whether lightly or heavily—it’s time to schedule an evaluation. Even if the bleeding seems minor, consistent symptoms can signal an underlying issue that needs professional attention.
At Mitzi Morris, DMD, PC, we provide compassionate, comprehensive care for patients of all ages throughout Roswell and the North Fulton community. Our goal is to keep your smile beautiful, healthy, and strong for life.
Take Charge of Your Gum Health Today
Bleeding gums are never “normal,” but with early action, they are very treatable. If you’ve noticed bleeding when brushing, flossing, or even eating, don’t wait to address it.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mitzi Morris in Roswell today. Together, we’ll develop a plan to restore your gum health, protect your smile, and support your overall wellness.