Experiencing bleeding gums while flossing or noticing persistent bad breath can be concerning. These common symptoms often indicate underlying issues within your oral health. Understanding the reasons behind these occurrences is the first step toward addressing them effectively and maintaining a healthy mouth.
The Immediate Culprit: Plaque and Bacteria
The primary reason for bleeding gums and bad breath during flossing is the accumulation of plaque and the activity of bacteria in the mouth. Plaque is a colorless, sticky film primarily composed of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth, particularly along the gumline. If not regularly removed through proper oral hygiene, this bacterial film irritates the gum tissue.
This irritation leads to inflammation, a condition known as gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease. Inflamed gum tissue becomes red, swollen, tender, and prone to bleeding, especially when disturbed by flossing or brushing. Simultaneously, certain anaerobic bacteria within this plaque produce foul-smelling gases called volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). These VSCs are metabolic byproducts of bacteria breaking down proteins, directly causing bad breath, also known as halitosis.
Beyond Plaque: Common Gum Conditions
While plaque is the initial trigger, persistent bleeding and bad breath can signal more defined gum conditions. Gingivitis, as the mildest form of gum disease, is reversible with proper treatment and improved oral hygiene. In this stage, inflammation and bleeding of the gums are present, but there is no bone loss supporting the teeth. If gingivitis remains untreated, the inflammation can progress.
Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more severe and irreversible form of gum disease. Periodontitis involves deeper infection and inflammation that extends beyond the gums to affect the ligaments, soft tissues, and bone supporting the teeth. This progression leads to the formation of periodontal pockets, spaces between the gums and teeth where bacteria thrive. Symptoms of periodontitis include reddish or purplish swollen gums, continued bleeding, gum recession, loose teeth, and more severe and persistent bad breath due to increased bacterial activity and deeper pockets.
First Steps: Improving Home Oral Care
Addressing bleeding gums and bad breath begins with improving your daily oral hygiene practices. Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time with a soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended. Position the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and use gentle, short strokes to clean all tooth surfaces, including the outer, inner, and chewing areas. Replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles fray, ensures effective cleaning.
Flossing daily is equally important for removing plaque and food particles from between teeth and beneath the gumline, areas a toothbrush cannot reach. Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most around your middle fingers. Gently slide the floss between teeth, curving it around each tooth, and move it gently up and down to avoid gum irritation. Incorporating an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria, and cleaning your tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush can further reduce odor-causing bacteria and improve breath freshness.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If bleeding gums and bad breath persist despite consistent and improved home oral care, it is important to consult a dental professional. Persistent bleeding can indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires professional evaluation. A dentist can perform a thorough examination, diagnose the specific condition, and recommend appropriate treatment.
Professional cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, is necessary to remove hardened plaque (tartar) and bacteria from above and below the gumline. This deep cleaning procedure smooths the tooth roots, which helps gums reattach to the teeth and reduces the environment for bacteria to thrive. In some cases, a periodontist, a specialist in gum disease, may be recommended for advanced conditions or specialized treatments. Regular dental check-ups are important for monitoring gum health and preventing the progression of gum disease.