May 20, 2025
How to Stop Bleeding Gums: Emergency First Aid
By Dr. Leslie Patrick, DMD
Seeing blood in the sink after brushing or flossing can be alarming. While a little bit of pink on your toothbrush can sometimes be benign, how do you know when bleeding gums are a sign of a real dental emergency? Knowing what to do in the moment can help you take control of the situation and protect your oral health.
At Smyrna Dental Studio, we believe in empowering our patients with clear, actionable information. This guide will walk you through the immediate first-aid steps to stop gum bleeding at home and help you understand when it’s a true emergency that requires a prompt visit to our Smyrna office.
First: Is It a Dental Emergency? Triage Your Symptoms
It's essential to distinguish between a common issue and a genuine emergency.
This is a DENTAL EMERGENCY if:
The bleeding is heavy, pulsing, or continuous and does not stop after applying firm pressure for 10-15 minutes.
The bleeding was caused by a traumatic injury (a fall, a blow to the face, or an accident).
You are also experiencing severe pain, dizziness, or swelling in your face or jaw.
You suspect you may have an abscess (a pimple-like bump on the gum).
This is an URGENT ISSUE (Call for a prompt appointment) if:
Your gums bleed consistently every time you brush or floss.
Your gums are red, swollen, and tender to the touch.
This is a classic sign of gingivitis (the earliest stage of gum disease) and needs professional attention, but it is not a life-threatening emergency.
Immediate First-Aid: How to Stop Gum Bleeding at Home
If you are experiencing minor to moderate bleeding, follow these steps to control it.
Step 1: Apply Firm, Consistent Pressure
This is the most effective step. Take a clean, damp piece of sterile gauze (or a damp tea bag in a pinch) and fold it into a small square. Place it directly over the bleeding area and apply firm, steady pressure. Hold it in place for at least 10-15 minutes without peeking.
Step 2: Use a Cold Compress
While applying pressure, you can also place a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel on the outside of your cheek. The cold helps constrict blood vessels, which can slow the bleeding.
Step 3: Stay Calm and Keep Your Head Elevated
Try to remain calm and sit upright. Panicking can increase your heart rate and blood flow. Keeping your head above the level of your heart will also help reduce the flow of blood to your mouth.
Step 4: Avoid Irritants
For the next 24 hours, avoid anything that could disturb the fragile clot that is forming.
Do NOT rinse vigorously or spit.
Do NOT use mouthwash that contains alcohol.
Do NOT drink hot liquids or smoke.
FAQs: Your Questions About Bleeding Gums Answered
Q1: My gums bleed every time I floss. Should I stop flossing? No, absolutely not. This is a very common misconception. When gums bleed from flossing, it's a sign that they are inflamed due to plaque and bacteria buildup. While it may seem counterintuitive, consistent and gentle flossing is the best way to remove plaque, heal the gums, and stop the bleeding over the course of one to two weeks.
Q2: What if the bleeding won't stop after applying pressure for 15 minutes? If you have applied firm, uninterrupted pressure for 15 minutes and the bleeding is still heavy, you should call your emergency dentist immediately. If it is after hours or the bleeding is severe and you feel dizzy, a visit to an urgent care center or the hospital emergency room is warranted.
Q3: Can certain medications cause my gums to bleed? Yes. Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) can increase the likelihood of gum bleeding. It is essential to inform your dentist about all medicines you are taking during your checkup.
Q4: How does a dentist treat persistently bleeding gums? Persistently bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis or gum disease. The treatment begins with a professional dental cleaning to remove all the plaque and tartar that you can't remove at home. We will then evaluate your gum health and provide you with a personalized oral hygiene plan to restore your gums to full health.
Healthy Gums Don't Bleed
While you can often manage minor gum bleeding at home, persistent or heavy bleeding is a clear sign from your body that your gums need professional attention. Ignoring it can allow gum disease to progress, leading to more serious health issues down the road.
Whether you're facing an immediate bleeding issue or have noticed your gums are consistently sore and bleeding, our team is here to help.
If you are in the Smyrna area and experiencing a dental emergency, call our office immediately. For persistent bleeding gums, schedule a checkup and cleaning at Smyrna Dental Studio today.
