Why do my gums bleed when I brush?

Bleeding when you brush is a classic sign that your gums are inflamed (gingivitis). Healthy gums do not bleed from brushing. Brushing more gently because of the bleeding only lets plaque build up and makes it worse, so use a soft brush, clean the gum line more carefully, and add floss. Early gingivitis often stops bleeding within 1 to 2 weeks with scaling and correct brushing. However, if bleeding continues for more than 2 weeks or your gums swell and your teeth feel loose, periodontitis is possible and you need an examination.