Bleeding gums are no laughing matter and it is not normal. A general rule of thumb is that if your gums are bleeding from things like brushing, flossing or eating then there is infection present.
In other words, if your gums are bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth, you have gum disease.
Here are some reasons this may be happening
1. You have sub-par oral hygiene resulting in gingivitis.
If you fail to brush and floss regularily the plaque and food debris that is left behind will cause your gums to become red and swollen, the result is gingivitis.
Surprisingly, this can happen quickly. Your gums can become diseased within 24 – 36 hours of not brushing. Quite often gingivitis is missed unless you notice bloodstains on your toothbrush or dental floss. It’s easy to ignore gingivitis because it isn’t always painful; it’s out of sight out mind. But left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, a serious oral condition characterized by the destruction of gum tissue and even tooth loss.
Luckily, gingivitis can be reversed, and is preventable. Meticulous oral hygiene – brushing and flossing – to remove plaque from the teeth, in addition to regular visits to your Registered Dental Hygienist can keep bleeding gums and gingivitis at bay.
2. You’re a smoker
Smokers are at a higher risk of experiencing bleeding gums due to the many toxins in cigarettes, these chemicals decrease the body’s immune response and create inflammation. Your gums may become fibrous and enlarged, a sign they are not getting proper nourishment. Add this to the numerous reasons you should quit.
3. You have a poor diet
If you don’t eat the recommended daily servings of fresh vegetables and fruit as well as grains, dairy and protein, you could be setting your gums up for inflammation. A balanced diet is key for not only a healthy body, but also a healthy mouth. A combination of good oral hygiene and overall health is the best prevention. Pick produce over processed, your mouth and waistline will thank you!
4. You’re female
Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and even pre or post menopause can increase the chances of having bleeding gums. 
There are many women who experience regular hormonal gingivitis associated with their monthly cycle. If you think that your hormones might be causing your gums to bleed, ask us for advice on how to adapt your oral health routine. You may need more frequent professional care to keep it in check.
5. You’re stressed
Being in a constant state of agitation can get in the way your immune system’s ability to keep gum disease at bay. It can cause 
inflammation in the blood vessels, which inhibits healing.
6. It’s in your DNA
About 35% of the population is born with a genetic marker for periodontal disease. If this is you, don’t worry, your fate is not sealed. It may just mean you need to work a bit harder to keep your gums and tissue healthy. While extractions and periodontal surgery used to be the only answer, today there are non surgical options such as lasers available to help treat periodontal disease. But you may find you are able to prevent it with an early adoption of great home and professional oral care.
7. You’re on certain medications
Ever wondered why we ask if you’ve started any new medications? Some prescription drugs can raise your risk for bleeding gums. Many medications can interfere with blood flow to tissues or slow down saliva flow which causes dry mouth and less protection for your gums. With these side effects it’s important to have good oral hygiene because your mouth isn’t getting the beneficial effects of saliva, and your gums may be more reactive to the presence of plaque.
What can you do?
Remember oral health care, just like your overall health care is not cookie-cutter. What works for one does not necessarily work for the next. So when you’re co-worker tells you she sees her Dental Hygienist only 2 times a year, while it’s been recommended for you to visit 4 times a year, be aware that there are many factors involved in that recommendation. If you are unsure about what interval is right for you have a candid discussion with your Dental Hygienist about it.
One of the best indicators of gingival health is the lack of bleeding, both at home and during your professional maintenance visits. If you can achieve this then you are on the right path!
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