Gum Care
Bleeding on probing
Bleeding on probing means a gum bleeds when a dentist or hygienist gently touches the pocket with a probe, which is a sign of gum inflammation.
Healthy gums usually do not bleed when they are touched with a thin probe. Gums that are inflamed from plaque bacteria often do. A study in the NIH library says bleeding on probing is an indicator of the tissue's inflammatory response to bacterial pathogens. The hygienist notes which spots bleed as part of periodontal charting. Bleeding that stops after a cleaning and better home care points to healing. Bleeding that stays can mean ongoing gum disease. Gums that bleed when you floss are also worth mentioning at your visit. Do not stop cleaning because of bleeding. See gum inflammation and probing depth, or our periodontal care page.