My gums bleed when I brush: what should I do?
Bleeding gums most often reflect inflammation linked to plaque. Do not stop brushing; see the dentist for an examination and a clean.
Everyday care and prevention
Healthy gums do not bleed when you brush. Bleeding, often with redness or swelling, is generally a sign of gingivitis, an inflammation caused by plaque that has built up along the gum line.
The instinct to brush more lightly or to avoid the area that bleeds makes things worse. On the contrary, you should keep brushing carefully with a soft brush and clean between your teeth every day.
Without treatment, the inflammation can spread to the tissues that support the teeth: this is periodontitis, which can lead to bone loss, receding gums and, eventually, loose teeth. Smoking, diabetes, stress and certain periods such as pregnancy increase this risk.
The dentist examines your gums, measures how firmly they are attached around the teeth and offers you a suitable clean, sometimes over several sessions, along with personalised advice for your daily hygiene.
This is a general answer. Only a consultation at the practice can tell what suits your situation.