Why Do My Teeth Bleed When I Floss?

If you notice blood when flossing, don’t panic. It’s common, but you better not ignore it. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed. Here, we are to tell you all you need to know about teeth bleed when flossing. So, if you have no idea why your teeth bleed and how to stop it, you’re in the right place.

Table of Contents

Is Bleeding Gum Normal When Flossing?

No! Bleeding gums aren’t normal. Gums may bleed if you haven’t flossed in a while. But if it happens every time, it shows that there is a problem. Bleeding is your body’s way of telling you that your gums need attention. If you don’t treat the bleeding caused by flossing, it can lead to bigger problems like infections, gum recession, and even tooth loss.

Reasons Why Teeth Bleed When Flossing

The most common reasons which make teeth bleed when flossing include:

Plaque build ups along the gumline and lead to red and swollen gums.
Flossing too hard can cut delicate gum tissue and lead to bleeding.
If you skip flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which inflames your gums. So, when you floss, your gums bleed.
Your gums need vitamins, especially Vitamin C and K, to stay strong. If you don’t take enough vitamins your gums are more likely to bleed.
Blood thinner medication can make gums bleed more easily. Those who take special medication and notice this issue, should talk to their dentist.
Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can be another reason that your teeth bleed when flossing.

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How to Stop Bleeding Gums?

Treating the cause when your teeth bleed when flossing is the best way to stop the issue. Let’s see how:

Try to floss every day. Your gums need time to adjust. If you floss daily, the bleeding should stop within a week.
Use a gentle flossing technique. To do so, slide the floss between your teeth carefully.
Wrap it around each tooth in a “C” shape and move it up and down, not back and forth like a saw.
Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush. A soft brush cleans just as well without the damage.
Rinse with salt water to decrease inflammation. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into warm water and swish it around your mouth.
Boost your intake of Vitamin C (oranges, strawberries, bell peppers) and Vitamin K (leafy greens, broccoli). They make your gums stronger!
Drink plenty of water to keep your gums healthy. Don’t forget that a dry mouth breeds bacteria.
You better avoid smoking. Tobacco weakens your gums and slows healing. If you smoke, quit it to improve your gum health.

The Importance of Flossing Correctly

Flossing isn’t just about removing that stubborn piece of popcorn stuck between your teeth. As your toothbrush can’t reach every surface of your teeth, you need to floss them as well to remove any remaining plaque. But you have to do it properly. If you snap the floss into your gums, use too much force, or skip certain areas, your teeth bleed when flossing.

Prevent Gum Bleeding by Improving Your Flossing Technique

If your gums bleed frequently, improving your flossing technique can make a big difference. Let’s see how to do it the right way:

Never force or snap the floss into your gums. Slide it carefully between your teeth to avoid irritation.
Cut about 18 inches of floss so you can use a clean part for each tooth. This prevents spreading bacteria.
Wrap the floss around each tooth in a “C” shape. Move it up and down to clean beneath the gum line. Don’t move it back and forth, as this can damage your gums.
Floss both sides of every tooth. This helps to remove plaque completely.
Your molars are plaque hotspots! Floss all the way to the back to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Rather than traditional floss, try waxed floss, floss picks, or water flossers for easier cleaning.
Floss every day, even if your gums bleed at first. They’ll get healthier over time.
Even if your gums bleed at first, floss daily to remove hidden bacteria and help them heal.
Use mouthwash to reduce plaque and protect against cavities.
Visit the dentist Avondale, Az regularly to catch issues early.
Avoid high stress as it can make your immune system weak.

Bleeding Teeth Treatment and Prevention Near Me in Avondale, Arizona

If you do all the above mentioned and your gums still bleed, it’s time to see a dentist. At Desert Lake Family Dentistry in Avondale, AZ, we specialize in gum health. Our team checks for signs of gum disease, provides professional cleanings, and helps you restore a healthy smile. So, stop Googling “bleeding teeth treatment” or “Arizona implant dentist” and make an online appointment for free consultation.

Let’s Recap

Taking all these points into account, you shouldn’t ignore teeth bleed when flossing. Minor changes in your oral care routine can make a big difference. So, don’t forget to floss correctly, brush with fluoride toothpaste, and have a nutrient-rich diet. In this guide, we tried to answer all your questions. If you still have questions in mind, contact us at 623-388-5888 or make an online appointment for free consultation.