Causes of bleeding gums

It can be very strange and uncomfortable when your teeth bleed when you brush them. But hey, don’t panic! Bleeding gums often indicate a problem with your oral health. One of the main culprits is gingivitis, which is basically the root cause of gum disease. This bad boy appears when plaque, a sticky substance made up of bacteria, takes hold along the gum line and begins to irritate the gums. This irritation can inflame the gums, causing nausea and bleeding when brushing or flossing. Additionally, gnashing your teeth like a wild animal while brushing or flossing can also roughen your gums and cause them to bleed. Don’t even get us started on those toothbrushes with bristles that are harder than rocks—they’re like sandpaper on your gums. Oh, and your gums may be especially leaky if your hormones kick in during pregnancy, puberty, or that time of the month.