Seeing a pink tinge in the sink when brushing is very common, but it is not normal. Healthy gums do not bleed when brushed correctly.
Most common cause: gum inflammation (gingivitis)
Bacterial plaque building up between the teeth and gums irritates the gums. They turn red, swell slightly and bleed when touched. The good news is that this early stage is usually fully reversible with good care.
Other possible causes
- A hard toothbrush or brushing too hard
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy
- Some blood-thinning medicines
- Tartar build-up
- Smoking (it can mask bleeding, so problems are noticed late)
What can you do at home?
- Don’t stop brushing. Skipping the area out of fear of bleeding lets plaque build up and keeps it bleeding.
- Brush gently with a soft brush held at about 45 degrees to the gum line.
- Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes.
- Brush twice a day for at least two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
When should you see a dentist?
If bleeding does not improve within one to two weeks of good care, or if you notice receding gums, bad breath or loose teeth, I recommend an examination. Tartar cannot be brushed away; it needs a professional cleaning.
Related page: Fillings, Cleaning and Check-ups