Bleeding gums

There are many reasons why you may experience bleeding gums from something simple, like using the wrong technique when you brush or floss, or it could be a sign of a more serious issue such as a health condition you need to check out.

Common Causes

  • You may have bleeding gums if you:
  • Have gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums (gingivitis or periodontitis)
  • Brush too hard or your toothbrush is too hard
  • Just started a flossing routine and your gums aren't used to it yet
  • Take certain medications, like blood thinners
  • Have inflamed gums because you're pregnant (pregnancy gingivitis)
  • Have dentures that don't fit well
  • Faulty dental restorations
  • Underlying medical condition such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, discuss this with your The Dental Health Centre dentist or hygienist at your next review. If you are suffering inflammation or discomfort, don’t wait for your next review, give us a call on 0161 445 5459 as soon as possible to get it checked out.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth - a sticky substance that contains bacteria. Some bacteria in plaque are harmless, but some are harmful for the health of your gums.

If you do not remove plaque from your teeth by brushing them regularly, it builds up, particularly under the gum line and hardens into tartar, which becomes more difficult to remove. Tartar can irritate your gums and lead to redness with bleeding, swelling and soreness.

Gingivitis can be prevented and often managed with a good oral hygiene regime. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, rinse daily with an antibacterial mouthwash, and see your dentist regularly.

During your routine reviews and dental hygiene visits at The Dental Health Centre we will address any early signs of gum disease, giving your teeth a thorough clean and remove any hardened plaque (tartar). We will also show you how to clean your teeth effectively to help prevent plaque building up in the future.

If you have an increased risk of developing gum problems (for example, you smoke or have diabetes), you may be advised to visit The Dental Health Centre more often so your teeth and gums can be closely monitored.

Periodontitis

If you don't take care of your gingivitis in its early stages, it can lead to a more progressive form of gum disease known as periodontal disease or periodontitis.

At this stage the original plaque build up has developed into a harder, more damaging substance known as tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove, hides under the gum line and contains more harmful bacteria. If tartar is not effectively removed, bacteria will develop further and start to damage the soft tissue around the gums, creating pockets between the gumline and the teeth. Once these pockets are formed, it becomes increasingly difficult to manage the disease as they create hard to reach areas for bacteria to continue to develop.

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that, without treatment, can eventually destroy the bone that supports your teeth, leading to loose teeth or even tooth loss.

There are wider health risks associated with periodontitis too. The bacteria responsible for periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through gum tissue, possibly affecting other parts of your body. For example, periodontitis is linked with respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease and problems controlling blood sugar in diabetes.

Signs of Periodontitis include:

  • Gums bleed easily
  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Gums pull away from the base of your teeth
  • Bad breath and/or bad taste in your mouth

If you have Periodontitis you will need to regularly see the The Dental Health Centre dental and hygiene team to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums and manage the condition. In some cases, surgery may need to be carried out, usually performed by a dental specialist in gum problems (periodontist).

When to see your dentist or hygienist

If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you should discuss this with your The Dental Health Centre dentist or hygienist at your next review. If, however you are suffering from painful, swollen gums, don’t wait for your next review. Give us a call on 0161 445 5459 as soon as possible to get it checked out.

our dentist and/or hygienist will carry out a thorough dental examination to check the health of your gums. In some cases, a number of X-rays may be needed to check the condition of your teeth and jaw bone.

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Patient Reviews

People are talking about us

The biggest complement we receive is when our patients refer their friends and family to The Dental Health Centre. In fact, we have built much of our practice on these valued, trusted recommendations over the years. Read our reviews to hear why our patients are recommending us…

Patient reviews

888 Reviews

5.0

9th May 2025

Highly skilled staff who are polite, friendly and all make me feel confident in their abilities.I am treated with courtesy and respite but in a friendly way which adds pleasure to the whole experience.

9th May 2025

I have been a patient for many years and the team are absolutely delightful, very friendly and professional.

7th May 2025

Staff helpful and friendly. Appointment was smooth, appreciative that the dentist spends time going through the check up with you before and after

RT

Robyn Thompson

Dr Asim has done a brilliant job with my composite bonding, repairing and protecting my teeth after years of bad grinding. My smile has never looked better and it’s given me a lot of confidence. Nicki and all the admin staff are so personable and friendly, they really make it a nice experience from the moment you go through the door. Would definitely recommend Dental Health Centre.

4th May 2025

The reception staff are professional and friendly. Our dentist (Tom) is really great with my children, is professional and knowledgeable and listens. The dental nurses are all professional, friendly and kind.

2nd May 2025

I have been going there since 2008,i think.I know the staff fairly well,and trust them.The ease to make an appointment is a big factor.

2nd May 2025

Pleasant and friendly staff and very knowledgable dentist.

1st May 2025

Professional treatment from hygienist Very clean roomAir conditioning Very helpful reception staff

26th April 2025

The staff are so friendly and understanding. A dentist can be a scary place but everyone I have met has been a joy and very helpful. Even my children enjoy going. I pay for the dental plan too, and it’s 100% worth it. I have to say the reception team are the best out there!

25th April 2025

Always very thorough with the treatments. The receptionists are always helpful and kind.

24th April 2025

I have been a patient at The Dental Health Centre for many years and have always received first class treatment in all respects. The current staff maintain or even improve on past treatment experiences.

24th April 2025

I have been attending the practice for several years. I have only seen Mr Pett and the hygienists Aleena and Stella. Everyone I have dealth with (including the admin team) have always been good/professional and I have faith in the clinical teams' abilities (which is improtant, having had some bad dental exepereinces as a child). Since the takeover by the new organisation, I (rightly or wrongly) feel there is more of an emphasis to upsell products/treatments.

21st April 2025

From the moment you walk through the door you are made to feel welcome, the reception staff have time for a quick chat and remember personal details. Asim my dentist is extremely caring, and always listens to any concerns.

19th April 2025

I was extremely anxious and had a panic attack but Samantha and Dr Iqbal were amazing and supportive. They both explained the whole procedure, calmed me down beforehand and took their time with me. I didn't feel awkward, upset or ashamed. It was the best dentist experience i have had.

18th April 2025

I was treated with respect and intelligence. The staff remembered I have BPPV and could not lie back and were helpful as a result. Care was taken to check my teeth carefully. I was shown Xrays and have confidence in the treatment options given.

18th April 2025

Both the Hygienist (Aleena) and Dentist (Dr Ahmed) were excellent in their approach to me and explained everything fully. I am an extremely anxious patient who struggles to attend but have now found a dental practice I have complete faith in. The reception staff are also excellent along with the dental nurse.

17th April 2025

Very professional- staff friendly , dentist very knowledgable and very reassuring.

16th April 2025

Stella is the best!

16th April 2025

Usual excellent service. Individual patient care. Told when I arrived that the dentist was running late.

9th April 2025

Stella is excellent. Very detailed explanation of treatment.

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