Do your gums bleed when flossing? Although all dentists recommend adopting flossing as a part of your oral hygiene, it can take a little getting used to. Flossing your teeth helps get rid of the debris and food particles that are stuck between your teeth and under the gums. Usually, discomfort occurs while flossing when you are new at it.
If you want to know ‘How long does it take for gums to stop bleeding when flossing?’, it takes 3-10 days max for your gums to get used to the change and stop bleeding. Although, if the bleeding is due to another reason, it will continue even with regular flossing.
In this article, you’ll find out why flossing might be causing pain and bleeding gums.
4 Reasons Why Your Gums Bleed While Flossing
If your gums bleed after you floss, it is not usually something to panic about. It might be because you are:
1. New at Flossing
If you just started flossing recently, it might explain the pain, discomfort, and gum bleeding. Your gums and teeth are getting used to this new cleaning routine, as they are unfamiliar with the flossing strikes. Thus, if you are new at flossing and experience bleeding gums while flossing, it might be because you are new at it. Once your gums get used to this new oral hygiene habit, you will be on the road to good oral health.
2. Using A Wrong Flossing Technique
If your gums bleed while flossing, it might be because you are doing it wrong. Use the proper flossing techniques, and be mindful of being gentle and calm while moving the thread between your teeth. Avoid flossing your teeth aggressively, as it can cause gum bleeding. Moreover, if your gums bleed when you are flossing and you cannot get the hang of the traditional floss, you can go for these instead:
- Water flossing
- Dental Pick
- Interdental brushes
Moreover, ask your dentist the correct way to floss your teeth. Remember, flossing is crucial for your oral health, and thus, you should not give it up.
3. Gum Disease
Sometimes, if your gums bleed when you floss, it might not be as innocent as the reasons listed above. It can hint at gum disease. The primary sign to keep an eye out for is gums bleeding after flossing. If bleeding gums are accompanied by tooth pain after brushing or flossing, go to your dentist as soon as possible for a check-up.
4. Lack of Vitamin C
Healthy nutrition is essential. Poor nutrition, particularly a diet deficient in vitamin C, can cause your gums to bleed while flossing. Therefore, your diet can be crucial in why your gums bleed while you floss. Try observing what you eat, as bleeding gums might indicate that you need a nutritious diet.
What is the takeaway?
If your gums bleed while flossing, it is usually not bad news. You just need to get used to this oral hygiene habit, or you need to do it properly. However, bleeding gums while flossing might signify that your gums need immediate medical attention, as you might have gum disease. Thus, talk to your dentist if you feel discomfort while flossing for alternatives and correct techniques.
If you experience constant bleeding gums or any other unusual occurrence while practicing oral hygiene, visit your dentist. You can also contact our experts at Spring Cypress Dental by dialing 281-256-3222.