Why do my gums bleed after flossing? What does my Winter Park dentist recommend?
Why do my gums bleed after flossing?
If you have noticed some blood from your gums whenever you brush or floss, you're not alone. Gum bleeding is one of the most common dental health symptoms people face today. If you've ever experienced this issue, you're likely eager to understand the underlying causes, preventive measures, and recommendations from dental professionals. Here's some helpful insight into this topic. We will explain some of the reasons why your gums are bleeding when flossing.
Gums Bleeding After Flossing
Bleeding gums are common and can be due to a wide range of reasons. You may have bit something too hard, or you just might be recovering from recent dental procedures. However, the most common reason is inflammation in your gums and tissues. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease or “gum disease”. Its noticeable symptoms are swollen and red gums that bleed. This inflammation occurs when bacterial plaque accumulates at the gum line due to an insufficient oral care routine.
What Do Dentists Recommend?
Your dentist may advise you to maintain regular dental check-ups, which allow professionals to evaluate and guide individuals on their oral health.
Oral hygiene: Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day to remove plaque buildup between teeth.
Antiseptic mouthwash: This can help reduce bacteria and inflammation.
Low-sugar diet: Consuming a diet low in sugary foods and drinks helps reduce the risk of plaque buildup.
Regular dental cleanings: Professionals can address any tartar (hardened plaque) that regular brushing and flossing might miss.
Potential Periodontal Disease
When your gums bleed, the most commonly seen cause is periodontal disease, which is a condition where the buildup of tartar spreads underneath the gum line and causes inflammation of the gums. Tartar is the long-term formation of plaque caused by bacteria. When the build-up spreads in between the gums and the teeth, it can separate the gums from the teeth and deteriorate the tooth, gums, and bone. When left untreated, this is a common cause of bleeding symptoms from your gums. Unfortunately, only a dental professional can help remove this buildup – as it will not come off with standard brushing and may not even be fully visible without X-rays. If your gums bleed regularly when brushing and flossing, that is a sure sign you should make an appointment with your local dentist to have a checkup for any potential dental conditions.
Proper Flossing Technique To Not Hurt Gums
Using the right flossing technique is very important for all patients, not just those with potential bleeding gums. This is how you should be doing your flossing properly:
Take about 18 inches of floss and wind the majority around each of your middle fingers, leaving an inch or two to work with.
Hold the floss between your thumbs and index fingers.
Slide it gently between your teeth. If your teeth are “tight,” use a zig-zag motion to gently pull the floss through.
Curve the floss into a 'C' shape around each tooth, ensuring you reach below the gumline. Slide the floss up and down against the tooth surface and under the gumline.
Use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.
When flossing, you do not have to force the floss into your gums but rather gently floss up and down, following your tooth to reach the natural extent of your gum line. If it is difficult to pull the floss through, consider using a thinner floss such as Glide.
Expectations After Dental Procedures
Post-dental procedures, such as deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) or restorative work that affects the gums (like crown placements), it's not unusual to experience mild bleeding. This is generally a temporary side effect, and your dentist will provide guidance on aftercare to minimize discomfort and bleeding. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinsing with a warm saltwater solution can often help soothe the gums.
When To Seek Immediate Help
While mild bleeding after flossing or dental procedures is usually no cause for alarm, any heavy, persistent, or severe pain should be addressed immediately. It might indicate an underlying issue or complication from a recent dental procedure. In such cases, contacting your dentist or seeking urgent care without delay is essential.
Always consult with a dental professional about any concerns related to gum health or bleeding. If you need any help with gum bleeding or anything oral, reach out to us immediately.
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