Why do my gums bleed when I brush?

Reviewed by Dr. Rekha Pandey, BDS (NMC 38136) · Last updated: 24 Oct 2026

Short answer

Gums usually bleed when brushing because of gum inflammation (gingivitis), often caused by plaque build-up and made worse by tobacco. It is common and usually reversible with professional cleaning and better daily brushing, but it should be checked. At Kashyap Dental & Aesthetics in Butwal, deep cleaning (root planing) costs NPR 1,000 per tooth, done by Dr. Rekha Pandey (BDS).

Why do gums bleed?

Plaque that is not removed by brushing and cleaning between the teeth builds up and irritates the gums, so they become red, swollen and bleed. Tobacco makes gum disease worse.

When should I see a dentist?

  • Gums bleed when brushing
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Bad breath that doesn't go away
  • Gums pulling back from teeth
  • Loose or shifting teeth: book soon

How is it treated?

  1. Examination and X-ray
  2. Scaling and deep cleaning (root planing)
  3. Home-care plan
  4. Help to quit tobacco
  5. Review visits

What does treatment cost in Butwal?

TreatmentPrice (NPR)Notes
Scaling & polishingNPR 2,000–4,000
Root planing (deep cleaning)NPR 1,000 per tooth
Gum disease treatment (full)NPR 5,000

Prices last updated: 24 October 2026. Your exact cost is explained and agreed before treatment starts.

What can I do at home?

  • Brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day; spit after brushing, do not rinse
  • Clean between your teeth every day with floss or interdental brushes
  • Stop smoking and chewing tobacco
  • Keep up regular check-ups

How common is gum disease in Nepal?

A community study in Sunsari found periodontitis in 71.6% of rural adults, and in 85.4% of tobacco users, with cigarettes and khaini as significant factors.

Frequently asked questions

Is bleeding when I brush normal?

No. It is a common early sign of gum inflammation and should be checked, but it is usually reversible.

Can loose teeth become firm again?

If gum disease is treated early, teeth may stabilise. Advanced bone loss cannot be fully reversed, which is why early treatment matters.

Read next

Sources

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