Flossing is a pillar of oral care, and when your gums bleed from it, the result can be disconcerting. There are a number of reasons your gums may be bleeding. A dentist will need to diagnose the cause, but there are culprits to consider. In most cases, adjusting your oral care habits will resolve the issue.

Why Gums Bleed

For most people, bloody gums happen because they’re flossing too hard. If you have an otherwise healthy smile and see your dentist twice a year, just be more careful when you slide your floss between your teeth. In other cases, it can be related to gingivitis. This precursor to gum disease manifests when plaque builds up around the gum line. Sensitive, bleeding gums are a side effect. Luckily, gingivitis can be resolved with at-home care. When unchecked, it can develop into gum disease. Gums will bleed and become infected, and as tissue and bone weaken, teeth will begin falling out. Even if you feel you’ve simply scratched your gums, let your dentist know to ensure nothing goes unnoticed.

How to Prevent Bleeding Gums

Aside from flossing more carefully, you’ll need to ensure you’re doing so every day. Plaque forms in hard-to-reach areas, and floss is the only way to remove it. If traditional floss is too cumbersome, try floss picks or a water-jet flosser. You combat gum disease and gingivitis by ensuring you clean plaque from your gum line with your toothbrush. Avoid decay by limiting sugary and acidic foods; instead, consume plenty of calcium-rich dairy and dark leafy greens that are loaded with phosphorus and vitamins that strengthen gums and enamel.

If you’re in the Eagle River, AK, area and are overdue for a visit to the dentist, contact Legacy Dental Arts. This practice has served patients since 2007, providing comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry services. They use state-of-the-art equipment, including 3D X-rays, to provide the most accurate treatment and offer emergency services when the unexpected occurs. Call (907) 622-7874 to schedule a teeth cleaning session and visit their website to learn more about their services. For news and updates, connect on Facebook.