Bleeding Gums Surrey: Don’t Ignore the Signs – Get Expert Advice

If you’ve ever noticed a bit of red or pink in the sink after brushing or flossing, it’s a sign worth paying attention to. While occasional irritation can happen, persistent bleeding gums shouldn’t be ignored, as they can indicate underlying issues affecting your oral health and overall well-being.

At Rainbow Dental in Surrey, our commitment goes beyond providing excellent dental care; we believe in empowering our community with the knowledge to achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Understanding the reasons behind bleeding gums and the steps you can take is the first step towards a healthier smile, no matter where you receive your dental care.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth.

There are two types of gum disease:

• Gingivitis: This is gum disease that affects only the gums, which are the soft tissues around the teeth.
• Periodontitis: This is a more severe type that spreads below the gums, damaging the tissues and bone that support the teeth.

Gum disease is caused by the growth of bacteria on the teeth and gums. These bacteria are found in plaque, a clear, sticky substance produced by your mouth.

Healthy gums are pink, firm, fit snugly around the teeth, and do not bleed easily. When you have gum disease, you might notice changes to your gums.

Gingivitis symptoms include gums that are red, swollen, and tender. Your gums may also bleed easily during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis usually isn’t painful, so you might not notice the symptoms and get the treatment you need.

In periodontitis, the symptoms are more advanced. These can include gums that pull away from the teeth, persistent bad breath, hot and cold sensitivity, pus coming from the gums, a change in how your teeth fit together when you bite, and loose teeth.

If you suspect you have gum disease, it’s important to see your dentist right away, as early treatment can help prevent it from getting worse.

Why Might Your Gums Be Bleeding?

Several factors can contribute to bleeding gums:

• The Role of Plaque: The most common culprit is plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth. If not effectively removed, especially along the gumline, it can cause inflammation known as gingivitis – the initial stage of gum disease. This is a prevalent concern for many individuals in Surrey.
• Brushing and Flossing Techniques: While essential, brushing and flossing too aggressively can actually traumatize your delicate gum tissue, leading to bleeding. Gentle yet thorough techniques are key.
• The Importance of Professional Cleanings: Even with diligent home care, hardened plaque (tartar) can accumulate in those hard-to-reach areas. Regular Professional Cleaning, often a scale and polish performed by dental professionals, is vital for removing this buildup and maintaining healthy gums.
• Systemic Health Links: Sometimes, bleeding gums can be a manifestation of underlying health conditions such as diabetes. While not explicitly stated in the sources provided that diabetes causes bleeding gums, the HealthLink BC source mentions taking care of your teeth and gums in relation to diabetes, indicating a link between the two. Factors like vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes, and certain medications might also play a role in bleeding gums. To better understand these potential connections, consulting with your healthcare providers, including your dentist, is recommended.

Understanding the Implications of Ignoring Bleeding Gums

Ignoring persistent bleeding gums can have significant consequences. What starts as gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease that can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and ultimately, tooth loss. Moreover, research continues to highlight the link between oral health and overall systemic health, underscoring the importance of addressing issues like bleeding gums promptly.

Recent studies have shown that gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of cardio-vascular disease. The connection is primarily due to inflammation, as gum disease can trigger systemic inflammation that can contribute to the development of heart disease. 

Empowering Your Home Care Routine in Surrey

Regardless of where you receive your dental care in Surrey, establishing an effective daily oral hygiene routine is paramount:

• Gentle Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and employ gentle, circular motions to clean all surfaces of your teeth.
• Mindful Flossing: Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes, taking care not to snap or force the floss, which can injure your gums. Effective flossing is a key step in preventing the development of bleeding gums, a concern we often address with individuals in Surrey.
• Therapeutic Rinses: An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth, but it’s best to discuss the right option for you with your dental professional.

The Value of Professional Guidance in Surrey

Your at-home routine is crucial, but don’t skip those dental visits! Professional cleanings and check-ups are key for optimal gum health. Dentists can spot early problems, give you specific advice on cleaning, and remove stubborn buildup. Studies show that professional cleanings, when paired with effective home care, really help reduce plaque and bleeding. Interestingly, doing a great job with your home cleaning can also lead to similar improvements.

Still have questions or concerns about bleeding gums? Our experienced team at Rainbow Dental in Surrey is here to help. 

Book a consultation with us today by calling (604) 594-2779 or by using our online booking form:

https://rainbowdentalsurrey.com/book-now/.

We’re dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy and comfortable smile.

Citations:

• Needleman, I., Nibali, L., Di Iorio, D., Donos, N., Gkranias, N., & Suvan, J. (2015). Professional mechanical plaque removal for preventing gingivitis in adults–systematic review. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1), CD004186.
• HealthLink BC. (n.d.). Gum Disease | HealthLink BC. Retrieved from https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-feature/gum-disease
• HealthLink BC. (2023, March 1). Diabetes: Taking Care of Your Teeth and Gums | HealthLink BC. Retrieved from https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-feature/diabetes-taking-care-your-teeth-and-gums
• Canada.ca. (2025, March 19). Gum disease – Canada.ca. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/oral-health/publications/gum-disease.html
• Listgarten, M. A., Schifter, C. C., & Laster, L. (1985). 3-year longitudinal study of the periodontal status of an adult population with gingivitis. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 12(3), 225–238.