Seeing blood in the sink after brushing your teeth is always a bit surprising. Many put it down to brushing too vigorously or using a brush that is too hard, and move on to something else. When this bleeding comes back often, the question eventually arises. Inflammation of the gums, the onset of periodontal disease, a reaction to medication… there is no shortage of possible explanations.
Among the possible causes, vitamin Cor ascorbic acid, could be at play. The latter participates in the production of collagen, this “cement” which supports the gums, skin and blood vessels. When the deficiency becomes severe, we speak of scurvy, with very inflamed gums. Clinical trials show that low blood levels of vitamin C are more often accompanied by bleeding gums and that increasing intake can reduce them. Eric Berg, American chiropractor, goes so far as to say in a TikTok video: “Bleeding gums are a typical vitamin C deficiency.”
What to do if you recognize yourself in these signs of deficiency?
As a reminder, in France, the recommended intake is around 110 mg of vitamin C per day for an adult. The body stores little of it, hence the need to eat it daily through fruits and vegetables: citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, peppers, broccoli or cabbage. When the intake remains low for a long time, the deficiency also results in marked fatigue, easy bruising, dry skin or wounds that heal poorly.
The first step is to have your gums examined by a dental surgeon, who will check for plaque, tartar and possible infections. If bleeding persists and other signs of vitamin C deficiency exist, a doctor may order a check-up and, if necessary, suggest supplementation. Self-prescribing high doses is not desirable: it is better to start by eating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C every day.
Other possible causes of bleeding gums
Dentists consider that a little blood after brushing too hard remains a minor incident. On the other hand,
bleeding gums at the slightest contact, which remain red, swollen or painful should alert you. It may be gingivitis or periodontal disease, which ultimately threatens the strength of the teeth.
Recently, an expert also warned of a possible sign of type 2 diabetes. “In my practice, the first signs of uncontrolled diabetes often appear in the mouth, which makes dentistry an essential part of the conversation about diabetes”, alerted American dentist Catrise Austin in early March 2026 to the British media GB News. Thus, taking care of your gums could also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Certain treatments, such as anticoagulants, or poorly adapted dental appliances can also promote this bleeding. In any case, regularly bleeding gums should not be ignored and warrant a visit to the dentist or doctor.
