Gums · Perivale, Ealing
Gums that bleed when you brush, floss or eat are the most common sign of gum disease. Caught early, it often settles with better daily cleaning and a professional clean, which I can provide without a dentist’s referral.
Written and clinically reviewed by Marisa Lennie, GDC 252605 · Last reviewed
What’s going on
Bleeding is a sign of inflammation. In most people it starts with plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that builds up along the gumline when it isn’t fully removed.
Inflamed gum tissue is fragile, so it bleeds at the lightest touch from a toothbrush or floss. The bleeding itself isn’t the problem; it’s the signal. Left alone, the inflammation can spread below the gumline and start to affect the bone that supports the teeth.
Source: NHS: Gum disease (opens in a new tab), HSE (Ireland’s health service): Causes of gum disease (opens in a new tab).
At home
Based on NHS: Gum disease (opens in a new tab), NHS: Bad breath (opens in a new tab).
At your appointment
I gently measure around every tooth and note exactly which areas bleed. A pattern often shows which spots your brush or floss is missing.
The depth of the gap between gum and tooth tells me whether this is early inflammation or gum disease that has gone below the gumline.
Hardened tartar and the rough edges of old fillings trap plaque. Both are easy to miss at home and easy to fix professionally.
Some medicines and conditions affect how gums bleed and heal, so we go through these before any treatment.
How I can help
Bleeding Gums FAQs
Something else on your mind? Email me or call 020 8997 0933.
Bleeding gums are a common early sign of gum disease. Caught early, the inflammation often settles with better cleaning and a professional clean. It’s worth having them checked, because gum disease that isn’t treated can damage the bone that holds teeth in place.
No. Bleeding usually means the gums are inflamed, not that cleaning is harming them. Keep cleaning gently every day. If the bleeding doesn’t settle, book a check so we can find the cause.
Yes. Under GDC direct access you can book a gum assessment and treatment with a hygienist or therapist directly. If anything needs a dentist, I’ll explain and refer you on.
Gum problems are more likely during pregnancy, and the NHS advises extra dental check-ups while you’re pregnant. Tell me when you book if you’re pregnant.
An occasional spot of blood after cleaning hard isn’t usually a concern. Gums that bleed regularly when you brush, floss or eat, or that look red and swollen, should be checked.
Marisa qualified through the Royal College of Surgeons of England, training clinically at King’s College Hospital, London, and is an Approved Education Supervisor for trainee hygienists & therapists. She assesses and treats bleeding gums at Bilton Road Dental Practice in Perivale.
This page is general information about bleeding gums. It isn’t a diagnosis. If you take blood-thinning medicine and notice bleeding that won’t stop, contact your GP or call 111.
Call the practice or send an email to book your appointment. No referral needed.
Bilton Road Dental Practice · 56 Bilton Rd, Perivale, Greenford, London, UB6 7DH
Gum checks in Perivale (UB6), easy to reach from Greenford, Alperton, Sudbury, Hanwell and Northolt.
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