Pink in the sink?
Bleeding gums, explained plainly.
Pink in the sink is common, and it is worth a closer look. Most bleeding gums improve quickly with the right care.
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Gums that bleed when you brush or floss are most often a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease that can usually be reversed. Other causes include brushing too hard, starting to floss, pregnancy, and some medicines such as blood thinners. If bleeding lasts more than two weeks of good brushing and flossing, schedule a checkup.
Common causes.
- Plaque along the gumline. It irritates the gums, which swell and bleed. This is gingivitis.
- Brushing too hard or using a stiff brush.
- A new flossing routine. Bleeding usually settles within one to two weeks.
- Pregnancy and hormone changes, which make gums more reactive.
- Medicines such as blood thinners.
- Smoking, which can hide bleeding while gum disease gets worse.
Gingivitis or gum disease?
| Stage | What happens | Can it be reversed? | Usual care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gingivitis | Red, puffy gums that bleed | Yes, usually | A cleaning and better home care |
| Early to moderate periodontitis | Pockets form and bone loss starts | It can be controlled; lost bone doesn’t grow back | Deep cleaning and more frequent cleanings |
| Advanced periodontitis | Teeth can loosen or shift | It can be controlled | Advanced gum care, sometimes with a gum specialist |
What helps at home.
- Brush for two minutes, twice a day, with a soft brush angled toward the gumline.
- Floss once a day, even if it bleeds at first.
- Don’t smoke or vape.
- Keep your regular cleanings so tartar doesn’t build up.
Call us sooner if you notice
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Swollen, painful gums or pus
- Teeth that feel loose or are shifting
- A bad taste or breath that doesn’t go away
How we check your gums.
- Gum measurements
We gently measure the space between each tooth and gum. It’s quick and painless. New patient? See your first visit.
- X-rays when needed
These show whether the bone around your teeth has changed.
- A plan you understand
You see your numbers and what they mean, plus what treatment, if any, will help.
- Recheck
We measure again to make sure your gums are improving.
Who you’ll see.
Dr. Alanna Huth, DMD
Texas Tech School of Dental Medicine. Practicing since 2009. Preventive, family, and comfort-first care for patients who find the dentist stressful.
Every doctor here sees kids and adults, and you can ask for the same doctor each visit. Meet all three dentists.
Insurance, minus the headache.
- Most PPO plans welcome. We check your benefits before your visit, including deductible and remaining yearly maximum.
- A written estimate first. For anything beyond a routine preventive visit, you see what insurance is expected to pay and what you owe before we begin.
- We file the claim. You don’t need to send anything to your carrier yourself.
- No insurance? No problem. We explain costs up front. Our membership plan covers routine care for one yearly fee, and CareCredit or Cherry financing can help with larger treatment.
Not sure what your plan covers?
Call with your carrier name and member ID. We’ll tell you what to expect before you book. Heads up: we don’t participate in most DHMO or Medi-Cal dental plans.
Check my coverageCommon questions
Should I stop flossing if my gums bleed?
No. Keep flossing gently every day. For most people, bleeding gets less within one to two weeks as the gums get healthier. If it doesn’t, have it checked.
Is it normal for gums to bleed during pregnancy?
It’s common, because hormone changes make gums more sensitive. Keep up your cleanings during pregnancy. Dental cleanings are generally considered safe while pregnant.
Can blood thinners make my gums bleed?
Yes. Tell us about every medicine you take. Don’t stop a prescribed medicine without talking to your doctor.
Does bleeding always mean gum disease?
Not always. Hard brushing or a new flossing habit can cause it. But it is the most common early sign of gingivitis, so it is worth a check.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis usually can. Once bone loss has started, gum disease can be controlled and kept from getting worse, but lost bone doesn’t grow back.
Is gum disease linked to other health problems?
Research has found links between gum disease and conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Healthy gums are part of caring for your overall health.
How often should I get a cleaning?
Most people come twice a year. People with gum disease often do best every three to four months. Read how often you should get a cleaning.
Will I know the cost before treatment, and when do I pay?
Yes. Before any treatment beyond your exam and cleaning, you get a written plan with a cost estimate. If you have insurance, we check your benefits first and file the claim for you. Your portion is due at the time of service. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, and financing through CareCredit or Cherry for larger treatment. See insurance and payment.
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See cleanings and examsGums bleeding when you brush?
Book a checkup. Caught early, gum problems are usually simple to turn around.