Gums that bleed when a child brushes are most often inflamed from plaque left along the gum line. This is called gingivitis. It is common in children and teens, and it usually settles within a week or two with gentle, thorough brushing and cleaning between the teeth. Do not stop brushing, because that makes it worse. See a dentist if the bleeding lasts, if gums are swollen or sore, or if it comes with other signs such as bruising, a fever or frequent infections.

Why do my child’s gums bleed?

The most common causes are:

Plaque and gingivitis.
Plaque is the soft film of bacteria that builds up on teeth. When it stays along the gum line, the gums become red, puffy and bleed easily. This is the most common cause by far.
Brushing too hard, or a hard brush.
A firm brush or too much pressure can hurt the gums. Use a soft brush and gentle circles.
A new routine.
When a child who rarely brushed starts brushing properly, the gums may bleed at first. This settles in a few days as they heal.
Teething or losing baby teeth.
Gums around a tooth that is coming through or about to fall out can be tender and bleed.
Braces or other appliances.
Food and plaque collect around brackets and wires.
Mouth breathing.
Breathing through the mouth dries the gums and can make them more inflamed. See our guide to mouth breathing in children.
Hormonal changes in puberty,
which make gums more sensitive to plaque.
Medicines or medical conditions.
Some medicines and a few medical conditions affect the gums or how blood clots.
A knock or injury,
or a sharp food edge.

Is it serious?

Usually not, and it is easy to treat. But it should not be ignored. Gingivitis that is left alone can progress and, over years, affect the support of the teeth. Treating it early keeps the gums healthy.

Bleeding gums that come with other signs are a different matter. Frequent or heavy gum bleeding along with easy bruising, nosebleeds, pale skin, tiredness, a fever that keeps coming back or repeated infections should be checked by a doctor promptly, because these can point to a blood condition. This is uncommon, but it is the reason to take bleeding that does not follow the usual pattern seriously.

What can I do at home?

  • Keep brushing twice a day, morning and night, with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste. Use a smear for children under 3 and a pea-sized amount from 3 to 6 years.
  • Angle the brush toward the gum line and use small, gentle circles. Clean the gum line, not only the tooth surfaces.
  • Help your child brush until around age 7 or 8, and go over the teeth again yourself.
  • Clean between teeth that touch once your dentist advises, using floss or a floss holder.
  • Replace the brush every three months, or sooner if the bristles splay. Our guide to choosing a toothbrush can help.
  • Keep sugary snacks and drinks to mealtimes.
  • Rinse with plain water after meals, particularly with braces.

Gums often improve within one to two weeks of good cleaning. If they do not, book a visit. Do not use adult mouthwashes or antiseptic products on a young child without asking the dentist. Our guide to children’s brushing has tips for a child who resists.

What will the dentist do?

The dentist checks the gums and teeth, looks at how well your child cleans, and may remove plaque and tartar with a professional clean. They will show you and your child how to brush and clean between the teeth, and look for habits such as mouth breathing or for a medical reason. They may advise a follow-up to check that the gums have healed. Regular visits at the gap your dentist sets help to keep it from coming back.

When to see a dentist

Book a dental visit if:

  • bleeding lasts more than one to two weeks despite good brushing
  • the gums are swollen, bright red, sore or have a pimple on them
  • your child has bad breath that does not go away
  • the gums have receded or the teeth feel loose
  • a child with braces has gums that cover part of the brackets

See a doctor promptly if bleeding gums come with unexplained bruises, nosebleeds, pale skin, a persistent fever or frequent infections. Go to an emergency department for bleeding that does not stop after 10 minutes of firm pressure, or if your child has a swollen face or trouble swallowing.

How we can help at myPediaclinic

Dr. Sara Atif Mustafa, Specialist Pediatric Dentist, and Dr. Mustafa Abdalla, Specialist Pediatric Dentist and Director of the Dental Department, see children with gum problems through our routine cleaning, fluoride and sealants service. We check the gums, clean the teeth where needed and show your child how to brush so that it feels easy rather than a chore. Consultations at our clinic in Dubai Healthcare City are available in English and Arabic.

Frequently asked questions

Should my child stop brushing if the gums bleed?

No. Stopping lets more plaque build up and makes the gums worse. Brush gently and keep going. The bleeding should ease in a week or two.

Is it normal for gums to bleed when a baby tooth is loose?

A little bleeding when a baby tooth is wobbly or falls out is normal. Rinse with water and bite gently on clean gauze if needed.

Can a vitamin deficiency cause bleeding gums?

Severe lack of vitamin C can, but it is rare in children who eat a varied diet. If you are worried about your child’s diet or growth, ask the pediatrician.

Do bleeding gums mean my child has cavities?

Not necessarily. Gum bleeding comes from plaque on the gum line, and cavities form on the teeth. But the same poor cleaning can cause both, so a check-up looks for each.

My teenager’s gums bleed and they have braces. What should we do?

Brushing carefully around the brackets, cleaning between teeth and using the tools the orthodontist suggests help a lot. If the gums are swollen or sore, book a visit with the dentist or orthodontist.

To book, message us on WhatsApp at 052 218 1662 or call reception on 04 430 5926.