If your gums bleed after flossing, it can be due to an underlying gum disease.
No need to panic though, it’s easily treatable if you follow certain guidelines. This article will help you understand why your gums bleed and provide you the solutions to prevent and manage this concern.
Understanding the Causes of Gums Bleeding When Flossing
Flossing along with brushing are essential habits for oral hygiene maintenance. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from the spaces in between teeth, that toothbrush can’t reach. Bleeding gums after flossing could be cause for concern.
The importance of flossing in oral health
Brushing alone isn’t enough to clear all the bacteria and plaque that build up in your mouth.
Flossing is necessary to reach into small spaces between teeth where plaque may harden into tartar (calculus). Your gums can become inflamed and irritated due to plaque buildup, which can cause gingivitis, the starting point of gum disease.
- It helps disrupt and remove harmful bacteria and plaque buildup before they can lead to further gum and bone problems.
- It helps prevent and reduce gum irritation and inflammation.
- Removes food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath
Common causes of gums bleeding on flossing
Some common reasons for gums bleeding during flossing include
Gingivitis is the most common reason for bleeding gums, caused by plaque buildup which irritates and inflames your gum tissue. Gingivitis is reversible with good dental hygiene habits.
Incorrect flossing technique or excessive force might irritate your gums and result in bleeding. It’s important to floss gently & efficiently. If you’re new to flossing, it might be a bit uncomfortable for your gums, leading to some bleeding. This goes away with consistent flossing.
Hormonal changes: Changes in hormonal levels, especially during menstruation or pregnancy, can make gums more sensitive and increase the risk of bleeding.
Certain medications, such as blood thinners and other hypertensive medications, increase the risk of inflamed and bleeding gums.
The connection between gum health and overall health
Keeping your gums healthy is essential for your overall well-being along with a gorgeous smile.
Studies have linked gum disease to several health problems, such as increased risk of heart disease, diabetes & respiratory infections.
Uncontrolled diabetes may worsen gum disease, and gum disease can make it harder to manage blood sugar levels. Bacteria from an infected gum can transmit to the lungs and increase the risk of respiratory problems.
Proper Flossing Techniques to Prevent Gums Bleeding
Flossing effectively removes bacteria and plaque reducing the likelihood of bleeding gums.
Choosing the right type of floss
There are different floss options available, each having benefits of its own:
- Dental floss: Conventional string floss is a reliable option. For a good grip and ease of control, use lightly waxed or unflavored floss.
- Water flossers use a pressurized stream of water to clean in between teeth. They can be a good option for those with flexibility issues or sensitive gums.
- Floss picks are disposable, Y-shaped tools holding just a small piece of floss, making it simpler to reach back teeth. Ultimately, the floss that you will use regularly is the best kind. Experiment and find out what suits your needs and level of comfort.
Step-by-step guide to proper flossing technique
Here’s how to gently and effectively floss:
Take about 18 inches of floss. Wrap most of it around the middle fingers of each hand, leaving a short section (1-2 inches) taut between the thumb and index finger of one hand.
2. Gently slide the floss between two teeth. To get the floss between your teeth without breaking it, use it in a back-and-forth motion.
3. Once the floss is between your teeth, curve it around the base of one tooth in a C-shape. Scrape the side of the tooth facing you, moving it up and down several times.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3, for every single tooth contact.
These are some more suggestions for gentle yet effective flossing.
Be gentle: Try to avoid sawing or pulling the floss against your gums.
Don’t force the floss: Try a different technique or a broader floss if you find it difficult to insert.
Focus on all surfaces: Clean both the front and back sides of each tooth.
How often should you floss?
The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day. It can be done before you go to bed or after a meal, depending on what works best for you. Consistency is key! Incorporating proper flossing techniques into your daily routine, can prevent bleeding gums and help achieve a healthier smile.
Tips for Managing Gums Bleeding When Flossing
Continue flossing gently: If some initial bleeding is there on flossing, don’t stop flossing altogether! Continue your gentle flossing schedule, giving close attention to the previously mentioned proper technique. With time, daily flossing can help reduce inflammation and improve gum health.
Warm salt water rinses: help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Stir in half a teaspoon of table salt in a glass of warm water and use it two to three times a day.
Incorporating other oral care practices to reduce gum bleeding
- Improve your brushing technique: Make sure you’re using a soft-bristled brush in gentle circular motions, twice a day for two minutes. Brush your tongue, your gum line, and all the surfaces of your teeth.
- Antiseptic mouthwash: Use an antiseptic mouthwash, as recommended by your dentist. This helps kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Tartar removal: Schedule routine dental cleanings to get rid of tartar buildup that flossing can’t remove.
- Dietary changes: Limit processed and sugary foods as these may contribute to plaque accumulation. For better gum health, choose fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
When to seek professional help
You must seek professional guidance if your gums continue to bleed even after you have changed your oral hygiene habits and are flossing correctly. Here are some signs you should see a dentist:
- Bleeding gums that don’t heal in a week or two
- Painful, red, or swollen gums
- Receding gums
- Persistent poor breath
- Loose teeth
To stop further complications from gum disease, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Your dentist will assess your condition, recommend the best course of action, and help you achieve the best possible dental health.
Keep in mind that keeping your gums healthy requires constant attention. By putting these recommendations to use and prioritizing regular dental care, you can manage bleeding gums, get a healthy smile, and improve your general health.
Maintaining Healthy Gums and Oral Care Routine
A complete dental hygiene routine includes more than just flossing to maintain healthy gums.
Regular dental examinations are necessary for the early diagnosis and management of gum disease, as well as for professional cleanings to get rid of tartar which has hardened and specific recommendations from your dentist. Make sure that you schedule these at least two times a year.
A balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, quitting smoking, and controlling stress are the factors that affect gum health.
Brush and floss twice a day, schedule dental exams, maintain a balanced diet, control stress, and consider additional habits such as using antimicrobial mouthwash to establish a customized oral care routine.
It takes commitment to create a personalized practice that will help you maintain excellent gum health and a healthy smile for years to come. Consistency is key.
FAQs
Q: My gums bleed even though I recently started flossing. Shall I quit?
A: Not at all! When you first start flossing, you might notice some bleeding, especially if you have gingivitis. Continue gently flossing with the correct technique. In the long run, regular flossing will help improve gum health and reduce inflammation.
Q: How frequently should I floss?
A: The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day. Flossing can be done either before bed or after a meal, whichever works best for you.
Conclusion
Understanding the causes of bleeding gums during flossing—such as hormone changes, incorrect flossing technique, or gingivitis—will allow you to manage the problem.
This guide offers advice on how to pick the best floss, learn how to floss properly, and combine other dental hygiene habits like consistent brushing, using antimicrobial mouthwash, and maintaining a balanced diet.
Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is necessary for preventing bleeding gums, achieving good dental health, and maintaining your smile for many more years to come.
