Some people experience bleeding gums when they floss. Bleeding gums when flossing can happen any time, even if you have your teeth cleaned professionally. But bleeding gums are still cause for concern.
If your gums bleed when you floss, you may have periodontal disease, a gum disease that requires a visit to your dentist.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is a contagious bacterial infection. It can cause systemic disease if it’s left untreated. If you don’t visit your dentist for a checkup, gum disease can destroy your gums. It can also lead to tooth loss.
Is gum disease common?
Gum disease is common, affecting nearly 80 percent of the adult population. You can avoid experiencing bleeding gums when you floss by just changing your dental habits. One of the reasons you have bleeding gums while flossing is that your oral hygiene is subpar.
If you take care of your teeth you shouldn’t experience bleeding gums. Your best bet is to use an electric toothbrush, anti-bacterial mouth rinse, and fluoride toothpaste. These products can cut down the accumulation of harmful bacteria in your mouth.
If you’re not sure how to floss properly, Nicholas S. St George, DDS can teach you the proper way. You may also want to consider taking oral probiotic mints, as they can help prevent tooth decay and bleeding gums.
Avoid Processed Food
Another way to avoid bleeding gums when you floss is to avoid processed foods. Keep in mind that processed food items aren’t only bad for your waistline, but they’re also bad for your oral health.
Choose to eat servings of fruits and vegetables and take nutritional supplements, like vitamins C, D and magnesium. Fish oil is also a building block of your oral health.
If you eat well and take care of your teeth, you shouldn’t suffer from gum pain, bleeding gums, and sensitivity again. That’s because eating the right food can boost your immune system while nourishing your oral soft tissues.
Of course, you still need to practice oral hygiene, like brushing your teeth after every meal and flossing at least twice a day. You must also visit your dentist twice a year or as recommended to have your teeth cleaned professionally.
Quit Smoking
If you no longer want to see your gums bleed when you floss, then you should stop smoking. Smoking is bad for your health as well as your gums and teeth. Tobacco use will only increase your risk of suffering from a periodontal disease.
To help you get rid of bleeding gums when you floss, visit Nicholas S. St. George, DDS clinic today to learn more about how you can avoid and treat bleeding gums.
