When to Seek Emergency Care for Bleeding Gums

We’ve all experienced occasional bleeding when we brush and floss. While even occasional bleeding isn’t ideal, we want our patients to be aware of the type of bleeding that indicates serious oral health issues (and may even need emergency care). 

Our team at Rifkin Dental in Carmel and Yorktown Heights, New York, is here to clear up the confusion about bleeding gums so you can receive the help you need. 

Why are my gums bleeding?

There are several reasons your gums might be bleeding — some mild, and others more serious. Sometimes your gums bleed when you brush too hard, change your flossing routine, or take certain medications that affect your blood. 

More serious causes of bleeding gums include gingivitis (early gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease). Gingivitis is inflammation from plaque buildup. Periodontitis stems from untreated gingivitis, leading to bone and tooth loss. 

When bleeding gums aren’t an emergency

Mild gum bleeding that occurs after you brush and floss or that goes away in a day or two isn’t usually an emergency (though we want to know about it at your next check-up). 

In many cases, mild bleeding resolves with better oral hygiene practices and a professional cleaning by one of our dentists. Even if you have great habits, it's almost impossible to remove all the plaque and tartar from your teeth, which is why it’s crucial to schedule regular cleanings. 

When bleeding gums are an emergency

When you think of a dental emergency, you probably think of knocked-out teeth, but bleeding gums can also warrant emergency care. Bleeding gums become an emergency if you notice:

• Sudden heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Persistent bleeding despite regular oral hygiene
• Swelling, pain, or pus 
• Loose teeth or gum recession
• Bleeding after trauma

These are warning signs of advanced gum disease, infection, or injury, and all require urgent professional treatment to avoid complications. 

Your first steps

If you have serious bleeding, don’t panic. The best first step is to rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to soothe irritation. Next, apply light pressure with clean gauze and call our office immediately to schedule an appointment.

When you arrive, we quickly address the trauma or infection. Depending on your needs, an extraction, root canal, filling, or other treatment may be required. 

An ounce of prevention

Once you’ve dealt with bleeding gums, you don’t want to do it again. The best way to keep your gums healthy is to:

• Gently brush and floss twice daily 
• Eat a balanced diet rich in C and K vitamins
• Quit smoking
• Stay hydrated

Above all, it's important to schedule check-ups and cleanings with us every six months, so we can catch warning signs before they turn into full-blown emergencies.

Your comfort and health are our priority

When your gums start bleeding, it can be unsettling. But it doesn’t have to be when our team is standing by. If you’re dealing with serious bleeding, don’t wait another moment. Reach out to our staff online or by phone today at your nearest Rifkin Dental location.