If your gums are tender, swollen, bleeding, or sore, it may mean that you have gum disease. This or bleeding may only occur when you are brushing and flossing, or it could be ever present.

It may start as a little blood when you spit out your toothpaste, or on your floss, but bleeding gums are not healthy gums. 

Nearly half of adults in America have some form of gum disease. You should see a dentist to stop the progression of the disease. As gum disease advances it can lead to loss of one or more teeth. Untreated, gum disease can lead to the loss all of your teeth.

The first step to treating gum disease is to set up an appointment with your dentist. The dentist will perform an exam, and take x-rays to create a treatment plan to help restore gum health.