Healthy gums do not bleed. So if you notice blood when flossing or brushing, something is wrong. It can be an early sign of gum disease, so if you notice bleeding you should make a dental appointment. Bleeding gums can be triggered by numerous factors, such as a new dental routine, brushing too often, too hard or too little, or taking certain medicines. The build-up of plaque micro-organisms on, beside and between the teeth is frequently the cause. Plaque bacteria can cause gum problems and eventually bleeding if they are not removed, usually by brushing.

These six simple steps in your daily routine can reduce the risk of bleeding gums:

1. Twice, for two minutes

If you neglect oral care, plaque bacteria and food particles can gather around, on and between the teeth and cause inflamed gums and conditions such as gingivitis. Brushing removes this plaque and the food debris. Brush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. Do not skip a step. Each time, make sure you also get into the spaces between the teeth and every other nook and cranny. Brush the chewing surfaces as well as the inner and outer surfaces of every tooth, top and bottom, in that order. Ask your dentist about the right way to brush.

2. Gentle movement

The pressure you brush with really does not matter. Enamel can be damaged by hard or prolonged brushing and by using an old brush. Be careful, therefore, when you brush. Replacing the brush every three months is also recommended.

3. The angle matters

Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum and make circular or elliptical movements. That cleans the gum line, the area between gum and tooth. Brush the front part of the brush against the inner surfaces of the front teeth in short circular movements, holding the brush upright.

4. Think of the gum line

Plaque bacteria can gather at the gum line and cause gum disease. When brushing, therefore, take particular care to remove plaque from between the teeth and from this area too. The build-up of plaque can be prevented if you also clean your teeth with interdental brushes or floss.