My braces are making my gums bleed. is this normal?

Yes and no: Braces are just another irritant and barrier to health. Having said that, it is your responsibility to take care of your gums even with braces. There are some occaions where you ight have a period of no choice depending on how your teeth are and where the brakets are. Talk to your dentist to see if this can be resolved simply.

No: The accumulation of food debris and plaque bacteria around your braces are causing gum tissue inflammation or gingivitis. This bleeding gum tissue requires special added attention to detail and time for better oral hygiene on your part.

Increased Home Care : Bleeding gums are never normal, at times they are more common than we would like. Braces are one of those times. Braces create many additional "nooks-and-crannies" around teeth, the additional areas require a more detailed cleaning, and more attention overall. Imagine, after 1.5 years of braces, you have them taken off and find you have white squares in the middle of your teeth! brush & floss!