Is there pink in the sink after you finish brushing your teeth?  There are several reasons why your gums may be bleeding and leaving telltale signs behind after brushing.

According to Kenneth Bueltmann, D.D.S., the president of the American Academy of Periodontology, “Gum swelling is quite common and may involve one area of the gums surrounding a tooth or the entire gums in the mouth. In addition, there are many causes of swollen gums that could be as minor as hypersensitivity to chewing gum, reactions to prescription medications or a popcorn kernel logged into the gums.   The most important message this tells us is that if you experience swollen gums, bleeding upon brushing or flossing, or any other abnormal symptoms in your mouth, you should call your dentist or periodontist for a complete examination sooner rather than later.”

The most common reason for swollen gums is gingivitis, a mild form of periodontal disease.  With early detection at your dentist’s office, professional cleaning and good care at home, you can stop gingivitis and avoid periodontal disease.  However, swollen, bleeding gums may also be a sign of other health conditions such as leukemia, diabetes, immune deficiencies and nutritional deficiencies.  Therefore, it is important to visit your dentist to determine the underlying cause for bleeding gums to find out if serious health problems are the underlying cause. 

To get rid of the pink in your sink, visit your dentist today to find out why your gums are bleeding to maintain your overall health and well-being.