Feb 1, 2023
Causes, Prevention and Treatment for Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums during flossing is common issue that many people face and can be caused by several factors. While many people think that a small amount of bleeding is normal, dental professionals agree that any amount of bleeding is a sign of a problem. Understanding what causes bleeding gums or gum inflammation and how to prevent or treat them is essential for maintaining good oral health.
Causes of Bleeding Gums
One of the most common causes is gum disease, also known as periodontitis. This is a bacterial infection that affects the gum tissue around the teeth, causing the gums to become inflamed and bleed. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth and form pockets where bacteria can thrive.
In addition to gum disease, bleeding gums can also be caused by:
brushing too hard,
using an improper flossing technique,
hormonal changes during pregnancy,
menstruation or menopause,
other health conditions, such as diabetes and some blood disorders.
Poor oral hygiene practices, such as not brushing or flossing regularly, can also lead to gum inflammation. In some cases, certain medications, such as blood thinners, can also cause bleeding gums.
It is important to understand the cause of bleeding gums so that the right treatment can be pursued. In some cases, simple changes to oral hygiene practices can help, while in other cases, more extensive treatment may be necessary. A dentist can help diagnose the cause of inflamed or swollen gums and recommend the best course of treatment to address the issues. With the help of our dentists, you will be achieve healthy gums and prevent periodontal disease. We often emphasize that prevention is key, especially when it comes to periodontal disease.
Improper Flossing Technique
Do your gums bleed during flossing? Bleeding gums during flossing can occur due to incorrect flossing method. Flossing should not cause pain. You should delicately move the floss between your teeth and under the gumline, using enough floss so it does not tightly wrap around your teeth. For teeth with narrow gaps, you can utilize threaders or a floss pick to prevent bacteria buildup.
Common Flossing Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes people make while flossing:
Not flossing daily. Not flossing every day can result in missed plaque and food particles, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.
Not using enough floss. Using too little floss can make it difficult to clean between teeth effectively, leading to missed plaque and food particles.
Flossing too aggressively. Flossing too hard or using a sawing motion can irritate and damage gums, leading to pain and bleeding.
Not using proper technique. Improper flossing technique, such as not curving the floss around each tooth, can miss plaque and food particles, reducing the effectiveness of flossing.
Not replacing floss regularly. Using old or frayed floss can make it more difficult to clean between teeth and can also cause irritation to the gums.
It's important to floss regularly and properly to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental problems.
Prevention And Treatment For Bleeding Gums
Treating bleeding gums involves addressing the underlying cause. If gum disease is the cause, treatment may include scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar, antibiotics to treat the infection, and surgery in severe cases. Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, can also help prevent bleeding gums. It is also important to visit a dentist regularly for dental cleanings and check-ups to diagnose and treat any oral health problems early on. In addition, avoiding smoking, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress can also help maintain good oral health and prevent bleeding gums.
Treatment for Inflamed Gums:
Visit the dentist - A dentist can diagnose the underlying cause of your bleeding gums and recommend appropriate treatment. The dentist will also perform a dental cleaning if necessary.
Scaling and root planing - This is a deep dental cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar build-up from below the gum line.
Medications - Antibiotics or other medications may be prescribed to help manage gum disease and reduce bleeding.
Surgery - In cases of advanced stage of gum disease, a gum design procedure or gym surgery may be necessary to correct gum disease and restore oral health.
In conclusion, bleeding gums during flossing can be a sign of a more serious oral health problem. Understanding what causes bleeding gums and how to prevent or treat them is important for maintaining good oral health. By following a healthy oral hygiene routine, visiting the dentist regularly, and avoiding improper flossing techniques, you can avoid bleeding gums and maintain good oral health.