Bleeding gums during flossing can be a source of worry. While common, it often signals underlying issues that can be addressed. Understanding the reasons behind gum bleeding can help you improve your oral health.
Why Gums Bleed During Flossing
Bleeding gums during flossing is frequently attributed to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. This condition develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth, leading to inflammation and tenderness of the gum tissue. When left unaddressed, plaque can harden into tartar, further irritating the gumline and making the gums more prone to bleeding.
Flossing technique also plays a role. Flossing too aggressively, using a forceful sawing motion, or inconsistent flossing can irritate delicate gum tissue. When new to flossing or restarting, some initial bleeding can occur as gums adjust.
Certain medications can increase the likelihood of gum bleeding. For example, anticoagulants (such as warfarin or heparin) and antiplatelet drugs (like aspirin) can reduce the blood’s clotting ability, leading to abnormal bleeding. Some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can also cause gum bleeding and swelling.
Other contributing factors include hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy, which can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of vitamin C or K, can also impair tissue health and blood clotting, increasing the risk of bleeding gums. Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or leukemia, can also manifest as bleeding gums.
Improving Your Flossing Technique
Adopting a gentle and precise flossing technique can reduce gum irritation and promote healthier gums. Begin with approximately 18 inches of floss, winding most around your middle fingers and leaving one to two inches to work with. Hold the floss tautly between your thumbs and index fingers for control.
Carefully slide the floss between your teeth using a gentle back-and-forth or zigzag motion, ensuring not to snap or force it into the gums. Once between the teeth, gently curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth, sliding it along the tooth surface and slightly beneath the gum line until you feel a soft resistance. Move the floss up and down several times to remove plaque and food particles. Repeat the process on the adjacent tooth with a fresh section of floss. Flossing daily is recommended to effectively remove plaque and prevent buildup.
Maintaining Overall Gum Health
Beyond proper flossing, a comprehensive approach to oral hygiene is necessary for maintaining healthy gums and preventing bleeding. Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush is fundamental. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle toward your gums and use short, gentle strokes, covering all surfaces of each tooth.
A balanced diet supports gum health by limiting sugary foods and drinks that contribute to plaque formation. Staying well-hydrated helps maintain saliva production, which washes away food particles and neutralizes acids in the mouth. Avoiding tobacco products, including smoking and chewing tobacco, is also beneficial, as these can negatively impact gum health and increase the risk of gum disease. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for removing hardened plaque (calculus) and for early detection of potential issues.
When Professional Dental Care is Needed
While many instances of bleeding gums can be resolved with improved oral hygiene, certain signs indicate a need for professional dental evaluation. If gum bleeding persists despite consistent and proper flossing and brushing for about a week or two, it warrants a visit to the dentist. This could signal that gingivitis has progressed to periodontitis, an advanced gum disease involving inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone.
Other concerning symptoms include gums that are persistently red, swollen, or tender, or if you notice your gums receding, making your teeth appear longer. Changes in your bite, such as teeth shifting or becoming loose, are also indicators that require immediate dental attention, as these can point to significant bone loss. If new medical conditions arise or changes in medications coincide with increased gum bleeding, informing your dentist is advisable. A dental professional can diagnose the cause of persistent bleeding, provide deep cleanings to remove calculus, and recommend further treatment or refer you to a periodontist if specialized care for gum disease is necessary.