Bleeding gums? What to do ...

Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth can be a sign that something might be wrong. A common cause of bleeding when brushing is gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease when the gum becomes red, irritated and swollen due to the build up of plaque on the teeth. If left untreated, Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis; bone loss and loose teeth.

Bleeding gums can also be a sign of more serious disease, so it is best to get your hygienist or dentist to check your gum health.

Your hygienist or dentist will recommend a course of action suited to you, however here are a few things that may help outlined by Colgate and Oral B below that you may find useful in addition to the clinician's advice.

Treating and preventing gum disease

• Brush and clean between your teeth better and more often. Follow the instructions from your hygienist, dentist and dental therapist. A good dental care routine goes a long way in removing bacteria from your mouth that can inflame your gums. It can even help reverse early gum disease. Brush with a soft-bristled brush and clean between your teeth regularly. Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth at least once a day.
• Eat better. Healthy foods improve your oral health by providing your gums with good nutrients. This means, eat more fruits and vegetables and less sugary foods, including refined bread.
• Monitor stress. Anxiety can affect your oral health. Stress can increase inflammation in your body. Stress also reduces your immune system's functionality. This makes it harder for your body to fight off infection. Additionally, stress makes you less likely to take care of yourself, which inevitably could mean brushing your teeth less.
• Don't Smoke. For many reasons, smoking is bad for your health. Teeth and gums included. 
• Change your toothbrush every 3 months. Bristles that are worn remove less dental plaque.
• Check your gums in the mirror often. Look for changes in colour or texture. If you think you have gum problems, see your dental team.
• Visit your dental team regularly for teeth cleanings and check-ups, check your teeth and gums, in case they require treatment, you increase your chances of keeping your teeth for a lifetime. The most important thing is not to allow dental plaque to develop, cause problems with gums, and endanger your teeth and gums. Tell your dental team if you are pregnant or have diabetes. These conditions make it harder for the body to fight gum problems.

Information sources and further reading:
https://www.colgate.com/en-gb/oral-health/gum-disease/bleeding-gums-treatment
https://www.oralb.co.uk/en-gb/oral-health/conditions/gums/what-causes-gum-disease