Why Do Your Gums Bleed When Flossing?

female flossing but wondering why do my gums bleed while flossing

There are a number of reasons your gums bleed when flossing. Often times it is a sign that you should change your dental care regimen. Flossing more frequently is just one example of what you may need to start doing to maintain oral care. It’s pretty common for gums to bleed when you first begin flossing your teeth. As long as the bleeding stops quickly, it’s usually nothing to be concerned about. Even with this initial bleeding, you should continue to floss daily. For more assistance, you can always seek patient education in Johns Creek, GA with Ricci Orthodontics.

Causes of Bleeding Gums

Many things can cause your gums to bleed. Some are natural and can easily be taken care of with oral care. Others may be more serious and require professional orthodontic services to fix the problem. While brushing hard can also cause gum irritation, gums bleeding when flossing can be the sign of a more serious issue. It is important to know the signs of something more serious so that you can get help as soon as possible. Some serious causes of bleeding gums include:

  • Cavities
  • Gingivitis
  • Periodontitis
  • Plaque
  • Leukemia

These are all serious issues that require immediate care from an orthodontist or doctor.

If your gums bleed when flossing simply due to irritation or inflammation, there are steps you can take to help prevent the bleeding further. These can include the following:

  • Brush and rinse twice a day
  • Begin rinsing with hydrogen peroxide
  • End smoking and drinking to strengthen your body’s immune system
  • Take actions to reduce your stress levels
  • Increase your intake of vitamin C and vitamin K by consuming vitamin-rich foods or taking a supplement

You can also speak with your dentist or orthodontist to discuss ways to help your gums.

The Smile You Deserve at Ricci Orthodontics

While Ricci Orthodontics works to straighten and correct issues with your smile and teeth, we also strive to educate our patients on oral care. Dr. Steven Ricci and his team work hard to help their patients achieve a beautiful smile. They also strive to teach each patient how to best care for their oral health. Proper care can only help to improve and maintain a healthy and functional smile. Through a variety of products and services, our patients are able to make the best decisions for their needs.

Along with patient education, we also provide the following services for our patients:

If you’re ready to achieve the smile of your dreams, make an appointment with us today. Contact Ricci Orthodontics now by calling [Direct]. Our team is ready to help answer the question of “why do my gums bleed while flossing,” along with any other questions you may have.

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