Why Do Gums Bleed When Flossing?
Flossing can cause bleeding if your gums are inflamed or irritated. If you have sensitive teeth, flossing may also cause mild discomfort, making your gums bleed. Using the wrong type of floss or flossing incorrectly can also signify that you should switch to a softer floss or cut back on time spent flossing each day.
Why Do My Gums Bleed After Brushing?
Your gums can bleed for several reasons:
- Gum Disease
Gum disease is a bacterial infection that can cause bleeding gums and bad breath.
Several factors contribute to gum disease; age—Gum disease tends to occur most often in people over age 60. Smoking also damages cells that line the inside of your mouth, making them more prone to decay.
- Hormonal changes in pregnancy and bleeding gums
Pregnancy is a time of many changes, both physically and emotionally. One common change that pregnant women experience is an increase in the levels of hormones in their bodies. These hormonal changes can cause a variety of symptoms, including bleeding gums.
Increased progesterone levels in the body cause bleeding gums during pregnancy. Progesterone relaxes smooth muscles, including those in the walls of blood vessels. This relaxation can cause an increase in blood flow and pressure, which can lead to bleeding gums. The good news is that this symptom is usually only temporary and will resolve after pregnancy.
- Medication
Several medications can cause gum bleeding, and it is crucial to consult your dentist for advice on the dosage or a change of the medications.
- Tartar Buildup
Tartar is a hard deposit that builds up on your teeth. It can cause gum disease and cavities, but it’s also the main cause of tooth decay. It can lead to gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Brushing too harshly
While it may seem obvious, brushing with the wrong toothbrush or too harshly can cause gum bleeding. To avoid this, use a soft toothbrush with small and flexible bristles. Your dentist also suggests sticking with circular motions when flossing; this way, you won’t overdo it and end up causing damage to your gums or teeth.
What is Gum Bleeding Treatment?
Gum disease treatment in Tracy, CA, starts with an assessment where your dentist will determine the cause of the bleeding. This helps him decide on a proper treatment plan for you. If you’re experiencing gum bleeding, treating the problem as soon as possible is important. This can help prevent further damage and painful symptoms from occurring. A deep cleaning or scaling session with your dentist is usually the first step in treating gum bleeding; this removes tartar, plaque buildup, and bacteria that may be causing inflammation in your mouth.
How Can You Prevent or Reduce Bleeding Gums?
Several factors can cause bleeding gums. However, you can reduce or prevent bleeding gums and their associated symptoms by:
- Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco; both damage your teeth and gums over time. If you have gum disease, see a dentist for treatment as soon as possible.
- Avoid brushing too hard, as this can cause the problem to worsen. Instead, use an electric toothbrush with soft bristles. If you’re prone to gum bleeding, speak with your dentist near you about ways that they can help prevent it from happening again.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily, preferably with the help of an interdental brush, to remove plaque between your teeth and gums.
- Get regular cleaning and checkups.
When Should You See a Dentist for Bleeding Gums?
See your dentist if you experience persistent bleeding or have a history of gum disease or pregnancy.
If your symptoms persist despite taking steps to prevent them from recurring (such as flossing), check with your dentist before considering any additional treatment options beyond the recommended.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re concerned about why your gums bleed after brushing, bleeding gums, the best thing to do is seek out a dentist who specializes in gum disease. Visit Innovo Dental and Implant Studio for assistance.