Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss? Let's Find out Today

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss? 

Flossing is one of the most important parts of your oral hygiene routine, but have you ever noticed bleeding from your gum afterwards? The bleeding can happen due to several reasons such as using the wrong flossing techniques or neglecting your daily dental care routine.

But never fear! In this blog we'll take a closer look at the causes and reasons behind gum bleeding and explain how you can prevent it from happening.

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss?

Although bleeding after flossing your teeth is common, have you ever wondered what the root cause was or what should you do if your gums bleed when flossing? There are several causes for bleeding in gums after flossing that we'll discuss here:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Gum bleeding can happen due to poor oral hygiene. If you don't brush regularly or floss your teeth, then plaque and bacteria can build up on your gums and teeth and cause sensitivity and inflammation which will lead your gums to bleeding.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, which is referred to as periodontal disease, is a serious dental condition which can cause gum bleeding. This disease can be caused by bacteria which can build up in your mouth and infect your gums and other tissues that are supporting your teeth.

Medications

Medications like blood thinners can be a cause for gums bleeding so if you are taking any medications and your gums bleed after flossing, consult your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes can also cause gum bleeding. The changes that occur during puberty and pregnancy can cause the increase of flow to your gums which make them more sensitive and prone to bleeding.

Brushing Too Hard

Using a hard-bristled brush can also be a cause for gum bleeding.  It's always recommended to use a soft-bristled brush and to brush your teeth gently to avoid gum bleeding.        

Preventing Gum Bleeding  

Here are some Bleeding Gums Remedies that will help you to ensure a healthy dental routine at home:

Use the Right Toothbrush

To prevent gum bleeding, it's important to use the right toothbrush because it can make a great difference. If your gums are sensitive, use an extra-soft brush and use sweeping, delicate strokes so as not to aggravate the gum line. Also remember to change your brush regularly - every 3 to 4 months is recommended. 

Daily Gentle Flossing

One of the most important things is to floss your teeth gently and make a daily routine of doing it as it will improve your overall gum health.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking can also cause gum bleeding and other serious gum diseases. Not only can it damage your immune system, but it can make you vulnerable to harmful bacteria that can stick to your gums and cause them to bleed.

Adjust Your Diet

You can improve your gum health and stop gum bleeding by avoiding food that contains sugar and eating leafy greens that provide essential nutrients like vitamin K to strengthen your body.

Discover More:Is There A Link Between Gum Disease And Alzheimer's?

What is the proper technique for flossing teeth?

Flossing your teeth shouldn't be painful or cause bleeding, however, you could experience gum bleeding due to using the wrong technique. Here are the steps to properly floss your teeth:

•     First, take a floss piece around 20 inches long and wrap most of the floss around your middle fingers on both hands.
•     Then, tightly hold the floss between your forefingers and thumbs and insert the floss gently between your teeth.
•    Next, make a curve with the floss like the letter 'C' and then slide the floss up and down gently, making sure to clean both sides.
•     Then take a clean section of floss and use it to floss each tooth and the gum lines.
•     Make sure to floss your teeth from behind by using a back-and-forth motion.
•     After you finish flossing your teeth, use water to rinse your mouth to remove any debris.

Should I Floss or Brush First?

It's recommended to brush first before flossing because brushing first can help remove food particles and plaque from the surface of your teeth which can make it easier for floss to reach.

Flossing Wrap Up 

You can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay by going regularly to your dentist, flossing and by brushing correctly, but you can also help prevent bleeding of the gums by maintaining your oral hygiene with our products as well. 

FAQs                                          

Q1: How long does it take for gums to stop bleeding when flossing?

       The time it takes to stop your gums from bleeding can be different for everyone because it depends on the cause of the bleeding.                  

Q2: I floss every day but my gums still bleed?

       If you are flossing with the right technique and you are still bleeding regularly then you should consult your dentist.

Q3: What should you do if your gums bleed when flossing?

       Improve your oral health by flossing gently, using a soft toothbrush and going for regular dental checkups.

Q4: How often should you floss your teeth?

       Floss your teeth at least once a day before you go to bed because it helps to remove plaque and tiny food particles that can cause gum bleeding.