Drs. Bloom & Wygodski

Pink Bristles or Pink Gums

A pink toothbrush can pretty up your bathroom sink….unless that pink is on the bristles. Having ‘pink bristles’ after brushing is a sign that your gums bleed when brushing. Bleeding gums is caused by infection which can progress into irreversible jawbone damage and tooth loss.

Bleeding, red, swollen, tender gums are a sign of gingivitis, or gum disease, caused by plaque biofilm (a sticky glop of bacteria) not being regularly removed from the tooth surface by regular brushing and flossing. When bacterial plaque is not removed, toxins build up and irritate the gum tissue, which causes the gums to bleed. The open wound allows oral bacteria to invade the tissue and set up housekeeping.

Counterproductively, some people believe that bleeding gums need to be brushed less. Actually, bleeding gums indicate that the teeth should be brushed and flossed more often. With regular oral care, in only a short period of time the bleeding will stop, and the gums will be healthy and pink. If you don’t regularly brush and floss because those tasks are difficult and frustrating, we can show you new-style toothbrushes, flossing aids and new techniques that will help you keep brushing up.

Additionally, bleeding gums are in need of a proper professional cleaning. If your gums bleed, please come in right away so we can perform a thorough exam to rule out other serious conditions.