We’re Accepting New Patients!

Read More Next

Looking for a caring and professional dental practice? We’re excited to welcome new patients to our clinic! Whether you’re due for a check-up, need treatment, or are looking to enhance your smile, our friendly team is here to help.
Contact us today to book your first appointment—we look forward to meeting you!

Bleeding gums

There are many reasons why you may experience bleeding gums from something simple, like using the wrong technique when you brush or floss, or it could be a sign of a more serious issue such as a health condition you need to check out.

Common Causes

  • You may have bleeding gums if you:
  • Have gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums (gingivitis or periodontitis)
  • Brush too hard or your toothbrush is too hard
  • Just started a flossing routine and your gums aren't used to it yet
  • Take certain medications, like blood thinners
  • Have inflamed gums because you're pregnant (pregnancy gingivitis)
  • Have dentures that don't fit well
  • Faulty dental restorations
  • Underlying medical condition such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, discuss this with your Cedar Dental Care dentist or hygienist at your next review. If you are suffering inflammation or discomfort, don’t wait for your next review, give us a call on 01635 867979 as soon as possible to get it checked out.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth - a sticky substance that contains bacteria. Some bacteria in plaque are harmless, but some are harmful to the health of your gums.

If you do not remove plaque from your teeth by brushing them regularly, it builds up, particularly under the gum line and hardens into tartar, which becomes more difficult to remove. Tartar can irritate your gums and lead to redness with bleeding, swelling and soreness.

Gingivitis can be prevented and often managed with a good oral hygiene regime. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, rinse daily with an antibacterial mouthwash, and see your dentist regularly.

During your routine reviews and dental hygiene visits at Cedar Dental Care we will address any early signs of gum disease, giving your teeth a thorough clean and remove any hardened plaque (tartar). We will also show you how to clean your teeth effectively to help prevent plaque building up in the future.

If you have an increased risk of developing gum problems (for example, you smoke or have diabetes), you may be advised to visit Cedar Dental Care more often so your teeth and gums can be closely monitored.

Periodontitis

If you don't take care of your gingivitis in its early stages, it can lead to a more progressive form of gum disease known as periodontal disease or periodontitis.

At this stage, the original plaque build up has developed into a harder, more damaging substance known as tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove, hides under the gum line and contains more harmful bacteria. If tartar is not effectively removed, bacteria will develop further and start to damage the soft tissue around the gums, creating pockets between the gumline and the teeth. Once these pockets are formed, it becomes increasingly difficult to manage the disease as they create hard to reach areas for bacteria to continue to develop.

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that, without treatment, can eventually destroy the bone that supports your teeth, leading to loose teeth or even tooth loss.

There are wider health risks associated with periodontitis too. The bacteria responsible for periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through gum tissue, possibly affecting other parts of your body. For example, periodontitis is linked with respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease and problems controlling blood sugar in diabetes.

Signs of Periodontitis include:

  • Gums bleed easily
  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Gums pull away from the base of your teeth
  • Bad breath and/or bad taste in your mouth

If you have Periodontitis you will need to regularly see the Cedar Dental Care dental and hygiene team to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums and manage the condition. In some cases, surgery may need to be carried out, usually performed by a dental specialist in gum problems (periodontist).

When to see your dentist or hygienist

If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you should discuss this with your Cedar Dental Care dentist or hygienist at your next review. If, however, you are suffering from painful, swollen gums, don’t wait for your next review. Give us a call on 01635 867979 as soon as possible to get it checked out.

Our dentist and/or hygienist will carry out a thorough dental examination to check the health of your gums. In some cases, a number of X-rays may be needed to check the condition of your teeth and jaw bone.

Patient Reviews

People are talking about us

The biggest complement we receive is when our patients refer their friends and family to Cedar Dental Care. In fact, we have built much of our practice on these valued, trusted recommendations over the years. Read our reviews to hear why our patients are recommending us…

Patient reviews

1833 Reviews

5.0

17th September 2025

I am very nervous about going to the dentist and they made me feel comfortable and gave me breathing space throughout the treatments

17th September 2025

My dentist is a delight yo visit. He put me at ease and explains everything before he does anything. I am nervous but he let's me settle in and has time for his patients. Thank Anish.

17th September 2025

From the moment you walk in the door , the staff are friendly and welcoming. The treatment that I personally have received, is second to none.

17th September 2025

A very professional clinician. He took the time to explain his reasoning and recommendations clearly, listened attentively to my questions, and provided thoughtful, well-informed answers. He didn’t push for unnecessary treatment, but instead offered an objective assessment of the situation and a sensible way forward. His focus on both patient care and customer experience was evident throughout. He carried out the work carefully and diligently, and his strong listening skills helped build genuine trust.In addition, the rest of the team has been very friendly, professional too, almost anticipating customer needs. Overall, clean premises, hand sanitisers, modern equipment, customer focus and always a friendly, positive and inspiring attitude and atmosphere.

16th September 2025

The welcome and professional treatment and the ease of putting me as a patient at ease with complete explanation of the treatment

15th September 2025

Very professional service and no issues experienced whatsoever

14th September 2025

The staff are all very friendly and welcoming.

14th September 2025

First class practice. Lucky to have it in Thatcham.

13th September 2025

Staff are friendly, approachable and professional at all times. I am never rushed in my appointment.I never experience an delays in treatment.My expectations are met.I feel my dentist listens to any concerns I may have.I feel reassured.

13th September 2025

Abigail is not only a superb dentist, but a lovely person also. She always looks after me, and makes sure I am at ease before during and after the dental work. I have known her for around 20 years now, and she has always been extremely helpful, attentive and provides an excellent overall service. She understand that I get a bit nervous attending for dental treatment, but treats me with respect, and she is always counseling me during progress to ensure I try to relax. She describes the work as it is being executed, and shows me the outcome afterwards with pictures where appropriate.

11th September 2025

The dentist was excellent.

11th September 2025

All staff are friendly, polite and professional.Environment is clean and comfortable.Quality of service is exceptional

9th September 2025

The Dentist was very patient with me as I was nervous and made sure I received great treatment.

9th September 2025

Have been using this dental practice for 40 plus years, very professional always a good experience with the dentist dealing with my treatment.

9th September 2025

After experiencing a broken tooth I was booked in the same day. Anish Patel made a temporary repair to the tooth and took great care in choosing the shade for the new replacement. The surgery was clean and well equipped and the nurse was very polite and professional

8th September 2025

Consistent friendly staff experienced staff.

7th September 2025

Always so welcoming from every member of staff.

7th September 2025

My dentist is lovely, she’s always happy to see me and so professional.

7th September 2025

Highly professional team

6th September 2025

The dental care was very good. There was no pain during the procedure and Rav cared for my nerves. Following the appointment, after the numbness went, I felt a sharp patch. Rav immediately called me back in (same day) and resolved it! Really impressed.

Prev Previous
Next Next