Is it Normal for My Gums to Bleed when Flossing?

Is it normal for my gums to bleed when flossing?

If you notice some bleeding during your daily brushing and flossing routine, you may wonder if this is normal, especially if you have had the condition for some time. In some cases, the bleeding may be very mild, but you may notice it when spitting out your toothpaste or on your toothbrush.

While bleeding gums may not be a sign of acute or immediate dental conditions, it is very often a sign of your teeth and gums needing attention from your Winter Park dentist.

Many of our patients note that some mild bleeding while brushing and flossing typically occurs, and they believe that they are flossing too hard or simply need to do a better job with their brushing or flossing technique. While these are certainly good things to pay attention to, they often can only be solved with a dental professional like a hygienist or a dentist.

Why do my gums bleed?

Bleeding gums are common and can be due to various reasons. You may have bit something too hard or might be recovering from recent dental procedures. However, the most common cause is inflammation in your gums and tissues. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease or "gum disease." Its noticeable symptoms are swollen and red gums that bleed. This inflammation occurs when bacterial plaque accumulates at the gum line due to an insufficient oral care routine. 

In essence, if you have not had a dental examination and cleaning in some time, you may have plaque disturbing the connection between your gums and your teeth and bacteria causing inflammation of the gum tissue and, as a result, bleeding when the area is disturbed even during regular activities like daily hygiene or eating. Unfortunately, a person can't remove this plaque without help from a dental professional. The procedure to remove the plaque is known as "scaling and root planning," performed by a dentist or trained dental hygienist with special tools and the aid of X-rays to verify the plaque has been removed so the gums can heal. 

Unfortunately, patients needing scaling and root planing procedures have plaque and bacteria that no amount of daily flossing, brushing, or mouthwash will be able to remove. Although several products, such as gum health toothpaste and mouthwash, are available to support gum health, none can eliminate the root cause of periodontal disease.

How can I floss to avoid making my gums bleed?

Using the proper flossing technique is very important for all patients, not just those with potential bleeding gums. This is how you should be doing your flossing correctly:

• Take about 18 inches of floss and wind the majority around each of your middle fingers, leaving an inch or two to work with.

• Hold the floss between your thumbs and index fingers.

• Slide it gently between your teeth. If your teeth are "tight," use a zig-zag motion to pull the floss through gently.

• Curve the floss into a 'C' shape around each tooth, ensuring you reach below the gumline. Slide the floss up and down against the tooth surface and under the gumline.

• Use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.

 When flossing, you do not have to force the floss into your gums but rather gently floss up and down, following your tooth to reach the natural extent of your gum line. If it is difficult to pull the floss through, consider using a thinner floss such as Glide.

Is it ok if I am bleeding after a dental procedure?

Post-dental procedures, such as deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) or restorative work that affects the gums (like crown placements), it's not unusual to experience mild bleeding. This is generally a temporary side effect; your dentist will guide aftercare to minimize discomfort and bleeding. A soft-bristled toothbrush and rinsing with a warm saltwater solution can often help soothe the gums.

Long-term effects of continued bleeding gums can include loss of bone structure causing instability of teeth, issues with potential infections, or increased risk of diabetes and heart disease. If you need a dental checkup and cleaning, consider making an appointment at your Winter Park dentist or give us a call.