Why Your Gums Bleed — And What To Do About It

Bleeding gums when you brush or floss is never normal, but it's extremely common and almost always reversible at home.

What causes it

The most common cause is gingivitis — the earliest stage of gum disease.

The 5-step fix

1. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled brush for two full minutes
2. Floss every day
3. Use a fluoride toothpaste
4. Rinse with warm salt water for one week
5. See a dentist if not better in two weeks