Don’t let anyone convince you that bleeding gums are normal!
Regular brushing and flossing will not cause your gums to bleed unless there is an underlying issue. Yes, it is true that some people out there brush or floss so aggressively that they cause harm to their gums, but this is not the norm. Periodontal (gum) disease tends to be the main culprit.
What Underlying Issues Cause Bleeding Gums?
Bacteria take every opportunity for growth in your mouth. As the sticky bacteria filled biofilm (plaque) accumulates on the surfaces of your teeth, it begins to wreak havoc in your mouth. Gums become inflamed and allow bacteria access to hiding places along the gum line. If left untouched, the inflammation (a.k.a. gingivitis) leads to a more serious type of gum disease called periodontitis.
Even people who brush regularly may be susceptible to gingivitis when they skip flossing for a few weeks. Brushing alone cannot reach all of the hidden spaces, so you extend your reach when you floss. It is wise to begin with a professional dental cleaning from your trusted Tampa dental team. This helps to reverse the early stages of gum disease, allowing inflamed tissues to heal.
What Happens If Plaque Sticks Around?
Plaque begins to build up along and under the gum line after people eat and drink. Initially, the plaque is soft and relatively easy to remove with a solid dental hygiene routine. Problems get more pronounced once the plaque sits under the edge of the gums. Hidden from the toothbrush, the plaque hardens and becomes tartar (calculus).
Tartar removal requires special dental tools and must be done in the office. If left for too long, gingivitis turns into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease. When bacteria have access to tooth roots and the jaw bone, it begins to eat away at the bone and can ultimately lead to tooth loss.
What Is So Great About Flossing?
Flossing adds a layer of protection to your teeth and gums beyond that which is offered by brushing alone. Flossing each day cleans the hard-to-reach spaces between teeth. It also disturbs plaque as it tries to build up between the gum and the tooth surface. By removing the plaque before it calcifies, you protect your mouth from further damage.
If it has been awhile since you last flossed, you may experience some soreness and bleeding at first. As the gums heal and inflammation decreases, the bleeding should clear up within a week or two. Remember, healthy gums do not bleed when brushing or flossing.
Don’t Give Up On Flossing!
If your gums bleed when you first begin flossing, don’t give up. Blood scares many people into giving up on flossing before they see the benefits. Spend a solid week or two brushing and flossing diligently to see if you can turn around early signs of gingivitis. If the bleeding continues or gets worse over this time, schedule an appointment with the team at Weninger Dentistry. You can count on us to help you get your oral hygiene routine back on the right track.