If your gums bleed when flossing, it can be a sign that they need more care, but don’t be alarmed.
Occasional bleeding when flossing isn’t unusual. However, consistent bleeding when flossing often indicates that plaque is building up along the gumline, leading to inflammation.
The good news is that regular flossing can help improve the health of your gums and stop the bleeding over time.
Why do gums bleed when flossing?
If you notice blood when you floss, you might feel tempted to stop. While this is a common reaction, in most cases, bleeding when you floss is actually a sign that you need to floss more.
Gingivitis
One of the most common reasons gums bleed when flossing is gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease.
Plaque builds up on your teeth and irritates your gums, causing them to become swollen and bleed. Flossing more frequently can help remove this plaque and reduce gum inflammation, ultimately stopping the bleeding.
Flossing too aggressively
Another reason gums bleed when flossing is using too much force or snapping the floss between your teeth. This can cause irritation or even damage the gum tissue.
Ensure you’re flossing gently, sliding the floss between your teeth with a back-and-forth motion without snapping it into place.
Aim to floss before brushing in the evening, as this removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, allowing your toothbrush to clean the surface more effectively.
Inconsistent flossing
If you haven’t been flossing regularly, your gums may become sensitive. When you start flossing again, it’s common for gums to bleed.
With consistent and gentle flossing, the bleeding should reduce, and your gums will become healthier over time.
Underlying health conditions
Certain health conditions, such as vitamin deficiencies (especially vitamin C) or conditions like diabetes, can make your gums more prone to bleeding. Additionally, medications like blood thinners can also contribute to increased bleeding.
If your gums continue to bleed despite improved flossing habits, it’s worth consulting your dentist to rule out any underlying health concerns.
How to prevent bleeding gums
Preventing bleeding gums is all about maintaining a good oral hygiene routine and adopting healthy habits.
Here are several tips to help stop your gums from bleeding when flossing:
- Floss regularly and correctly
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Stay hydrated
- Quit or reduce smoking
- Visit your dentist regularly
- Consider using an electric toothbrush
When to see your dentist
If you continue to experience bleeding gums despite making changes to your oral care routine, or if the bleeding worsens, it’s important to see your dentist.
Persistent bleeding can be a sign of gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to more serious dental issues.
Your dentist can perform a thorough examination to assess your gum health and recommend the best treatment plan to stop the bleeding and prevent further damage.
With consistent care and attention, you can keep your gums healthy and avoid the discomfort and potential risks associated with gum disease.
