If you notice bleeding when you brush or floss, you’re not alone. Gum disease (also known as gingivitis in its early stage) is one of the most common oral health conditions in the UK. While it can start quietly, without pain, it’s important not to ignore the early signs. Bleeding gums are your body’s way of alerting you that something isn’t quite right.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by a build-up of plaque—a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If plaque isn’t removed effectively through daily brushing and interdental cleaning, the bacteria irritate the gums, leading to inflammation, swelling and bleeding.

Over time, if this plaque hardens into tartar (calculus) and the condition is left untreated, gum disease can progress to periodontitis. This more advanced stage affects the bone supporting your teeth. Eventually, teeth can become loose, wobbly, and even fall out.

The good news? Gum disease is usually preventable and highly treatable when managed early.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Taking a proactive approach to oral hygiene is the best defence. Here’s how to keep your gums healthy:

1. Brush Twice Daily

Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for two minutes, morning and night. Make sure to reach all tooth surfaces, especially around the gumline, where plaque loves to hide.

2. Clean Between Your Teeth

Brushing alone cleans only about 60% of each tooth’s surface. To reach the remaining 40%, use:

• Floss
• Interdental brushes (such as TePe brushes)
• Water flossers
  Choose the method that suits you best—your dentist or hygienist can guide you.

3. Use the Correct Technique

• Choose a small-headed toothbrush and replace it every 3 months (or sooner if bristles splay).
• Angle the brush at 45 degrees towards the gum margin.
• Use gentle, circular motions—brushing too hard can damage gums and enamel.
• Electric toothbrushes with pressure sensors can be particularly helpful.

4. Add a Daily Mouthwash

An approved antiseptic mouthwash, such as Listerine or Corsodyl Daily, can help reduce bacteria and support gum health. Avoid using it immediately after brushing; instead, use it at a separate time of day for maximum benefit.

5. Maintain Regular Dental Visits

Routine dental and hygiene appointments allow us to remove hardened tartar that can’t be brushed away at home. For patients prone to gum disease, visiting the hygienist every 3 months is often recommended.

At Claregate Dental, our hygienist is available every Monday and Wednesday for a thorough Scale and Polish, professional cleaning, and personalised gum-health advice.

When Should You Seek Help?

You should book an appointment if you notice:

• Gums that bleed regularly
• Persistent bad breath
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Receding gums
• A bad taste in your mouth
• Loose or shifting teeth

Early treatment can stop gum disease from progressing and protect your long-term oral health.

Healthy Gums, Healthy Smile

Gum disease might be common, but with the right care and professional support, it is entirely manageable. If you’re concerned about bleeding gums or would like help improving your oral hygiene routine, our friendly team at Claregate Dental is here to help you keep your mouth healthy and your smile confident.

Visit our Hygienist on a Monday or Wednesday for a Scale and Polish and advice on how to manage and prevent gum disease