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Have you started to notice that your gums bleed when your floss? Are you nervous about continuing to floss because of this? Here’s what you need to know about bleeding gums and what they may indicate when it comes to your oral health.
Why Do Gums Bleed When Flossing?
More often than not, your gums aren’t bleeding when you floss because of the flossing. They bleed due to an underlying oral health issue. When gums bleed during your regular oral hygiene regimen, it often indicates that you have plaque or tartar buildup around the gumline. This buildup allows harmful bacteria to get into the gums which can cause gum sensitivity, swelling, and bleeding.
Another common reason for gum bleeding is infrequent flossing. If you don’t floss regularly enough, your gums may have heightened sensitivity to the floss, causing them to get irritated when you floss. Make sure you are brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each session and flossing at least once daily!
What Happens If I Don’t Floss?
If your gums are bleeding when you floss, don’t stop flossing! Instead, contact us so Dr. Bartels and our team can help you get to the root of the problem. Flossing is a crucial step in your oral healthcare routine and isn’t something you should stop altogether. Flossing helps remove trapped food debris in the hidden grooves and crevices of the mouth. It also helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup! Without regular flossing, you are more susceptible to gum disease, tooth decay, and more.
Schedule an Oral Health Exam & Cleaning
Are your gums bleeding when you floss and brush your teeth? We recommend scheduling a consultation and cleaning right away. If they’re bleeding due to a dental issue, the sooner you seek treatment, the less likely you are to have a full-blown, complex, oral health problem. Looking for a dentist in Jonesboro, AR for your gum consultation? At Troy Bartels, DDS, we love seeing new patients at our office and helping our Jonesboro community achieve and maintain great oral health. Please contact us to schedule your consult!
