SmileScoutSeeing pink in the sink when you brush or floss is common — but it isn't normal, and it shouldn't be ignored. Bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gingivitis, an early and reversible form of gum disease caused by plaque building up along the gumline.
The good news is that early gum disease often responds well to better daily habits: brushing twice a day, flossing gently, and a professional cleaning to remove hardened tartar your brush can't reach.
Left untreated, though, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone supporting your teeth and is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Smoking, diabetes, pregnancy, and certain medications can make gums bleed more easily too. If your gums bleed regularly, feel swollen, or your breath is persistently bad, book a dental check-up sooner rather than later.
References
Grounded in standard dental textbooks and professional guidance. These are general sources, not a substitute for an in-person exam.
- Newman MG, Takei HH, Klokkevold PR, Carranza FA. Carranza's Clinical Periodontology.
- American Dental Association. Oral Health Topics.
This is general information written by a dentist, not personal medical advice. If you are in pain, swollen, or unsure, see a qualified dentist.