A little pink in the sink after flossing is easy to ignore. In most cases, though, bleeding gums when flossing are your body's way of saying the gum tissue is inflamed.
The good news is that the cause is often simple to fix. When bleeding keeps coming back, our dentists in Holland, MI offer gum disease treatment that gets your gums back on track.
Here's what you need to know about why your gums bleed when you floss.
Gingivitis Is the Most Common Cause
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up along the gum line. When it isn't cleared away every day, it irritates the gums and can harden into tartar.
That irritation is called gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Red, swollen gums that are one of its first signs.
It's also very common. According to Cleveland Clinic, over 30 have some kind of gum disease.
You Just Started Flossing Again
If you're new to flossing, or getting back into the habit, some bleeding at first is common. Gums that haven't been cleaned between the teeth in a while are often already inflamed.
Don't let that scare you off. Early gum disease can often be reversed with daily brushing and flossing.
That's why steady habits matter so much. These ways to prevent gum disease are a good place to start.
Your Flossing Technique May Be Too Rough
Snapping floss straight down into the gums can cut or bruise the tissue. The American Dental Association suggests a instead.
When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Then slide it up and down along the side of that tooth.
Medications and Other Health Factors
Some causes of bleeding have nothing to do with plaque. MedlinePlus lists blood thinners, hormonal changes during pregnancy, vitamin C or K deficiency, and bleeding disorders as .
Expecting mothers often notice more bleeding than usual. Here's why cleanings during pregnancy are still a smart move.
Never stop or change a prescription on your own. Talk with the doctor who prescribed it, and let our dentists know what you take.
When to See a Dentist
Occasional light bleeding that fades with better habits usually isn't cause for alarm. Still, some signs mean it's time for a visit.
Call us if your gums bleed often or heavily, look red and swollen, or seem to be pulling away from your teeth. Loose teeth and bad breath that won't go away are also worth checking.
How We Treat Bleeding Gums
Only a dental professional can remove tartar. That's why we recommend a teeth cleaning and oral exam at least every six months.
During your visit, we measure the pockets around your teeth to check for gum disease and identify its stage. Here's what to expect during a cleaning.
For gum disease that has progressed, we offer scaling and root planing. You can also view all of our preventive dentistry services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stop flossing if my gums bleed?
No, in most cases you should keep flossing gently once a day. Bleeding usually means plaque is irritating the gums, and skipping floss lets more of it build up between your teeth.
The American Dental Association notes that cleaning between your teeth shouldn't hurt. If flossing is painful or the bleeding doesn't improve, let our team take a look.
Can blood thinners make my gums bleed when I floss?
Yes, blood thinners can make your gums bleed more easily, even with gentle flossing. That doesn't mean you should stop taking them.
MedlinePlus advises never changing your medicines without first talking to your provider. Tell our dentists about every medication you take so we can account for it at your cleaning and suggest the gentlest way to keep your gums clean.
Is a water flosser a good option if string floss makes my gums bleed?
A water flosser can be a good option if string floss is hard for you to use well. It rinses away food and plaque with a gentle stream of water.
The American Dental Association says the right tool is the one you'll use every day. Our hygienists in Holland can help you compare options at your next teeth cleaning.
How often should I get a teeth cleaning if my gums bleed?
Most patients should get a teeth cleaning and oral exam at least every six months. That's the schedule the American Dental Association recommends, and it's what we follow at Lakeshore Dentistry & Implant Center.
If you've been diagnosed with periodontitis, our dentists may recommend visits every three to four months. More frequent cleanings help keep tartar from building up below the gum line.
How do Lakeshore dentists check whether bleeding means gum disease?
Our dentists and hygienists gently measure the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth. Deeper pockets can be a sign of periodontal disease.
We also look for bleeding or swollen gums, loose teeth, and bone loss on your X-rays. If we find gum disease, we'll explain its stage and walk you through treatment options, such as scaling and root planing.
Schedule a Gum Check Today
Bleeding gums are worth paying attention to, especially when they don't improve with better habits. A quick exam can tell you whether it's simple irritation or something that needs treatment.
Our family dentists in Holland, MI are here to help you keep your gums healthy. Call Lakeshore Dentistry & Implant Center today at (616) 399-3946 or request an appointment online.
