Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss?
Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing can be caused by many factors. If you just adopted a flossing routine, your gums may not be accustomed to the process yet. Vitamin deficiencies, ill-fitting dentures, and certain blood-thinning medications can also cause gums to bleed easily. In other cases, it can be a warning sign of periodontal (gum) disease. Gingivitis is the initial stage of periodontal disease that can lead to swollen, inflamed, or bleeding gums while brushing and flossing. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis. At the late stages of gum disease, it is important to seek professional dental help to avoid permanent tissue damage and tooth loss.
Poor oral hygiene encourages bacteria and plaque to build up on teeth, which is the primary cause of gingivitis. Preventative dental habits such as brushing twice and flossing once a day, as well as using an ADA-recommended mouthwash can remove a fair amount of plaque. Unfortunately, plaque and tartar may accumulate in areas that cannot be reachable without the help of a dental professional. Routine dental cleanings and exams twice a year can remove plaque and bacteria in deeper, hidden areas. If you show signs of periodontitis, you may need periodontal treatment to reduce the effects of gum disease and avoid potential complications in the future. A popular treatment option that The Paddington Dental Surgery offers is non-surgical scaling and root planing (SRP). These two techniques are performed together to remove plaque and calculus from teeth, root surfaces, and under the gumline. Our practice also offers laser periodontal treatments for qualified patients. Overall, prioritising good dental habits, visiting your dentist for checkups, and contacting your dental office when you start showing symptoms are considered the best ways to keep your gums healthy from periodontal disease.
We recommend scheduling an appointment with your dentist if you are experiencing bleeding gums to determine the underlying issue. Contact us today if you have any questions or would like to learn more about periodontal treatment.
