Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss?

Many people get the urge to start flossing again — or for the first time — only to be upset by the taste of blood in their mouths and the discomfort of seeing it on their floss. This often leads them to avoid flossing in the future, but actually, the best thing you can do for gums that bleed mildly is to keep flossing. 

At Ueno Center Dental Specialists, we offer a range of ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Whether you’re in need of a deep cleaning or surgery of some kind, we’re here to help. 

But we always like to start with the basics. Taking care of your teeth at home is one of the most important things you can do for your oral health, and this includes flossing.   

Jeremy K. Ueno, DMD, and the rest of our team know it can be upsetting to see your gums bleed when you floss, especially if you don’t know why. So we’re happy to give you the 411 on the situation as well as advice on when you should come in for treatment.   

Myth: Flossing isn’t necessary 

The idea that flossing isn’t necessary — or even worse, bad for you — tends to make the rounds every so often. People sometimes believe this tried and true oral health treatment isn’t as effective at removing plaque and tartar as dentists say it is. But flossing is very helpful. 

It’s true there aren’t as many long-term studies on flossing as we’d like, but any dentist who examines the mouth of someone who flosses regularly can see the benefits. 

The process is supplemental to brushing, and one or the other on its own rarely does the trick. Your toothbrush reaches areas floss can’t and vice versa.

But if flossing is so good for you, why does it cause your gums to bleed? 

Why your gums bleed when you floss and what you can do 

This is usually a common reaction by someone who hasn’t flossed in a long time or ever. They see the blood and become concerned that the so-called benefits of flossing can’t possibly be outweighed by their gums getting cut. So they stop flossing, but this is the opposite of what you should do when your gums start to bleed. 

Bleeding gums due to inconsistent flossing is usually the result of the buildup of plaque and tartar, causing a mild form of gum disease called gingivitis. 

The irritation of the floss causes your gums to bleed, which can be scary. But when you begin to floss regularly, you’re likely to see the bleeding begin to disappear. 

Of course, there are some other issues that can cause bleeding gums with flossing. Some people floss too hard, irritating their gums in the process. Brushing your teeth too hard can also contribute. And other issues, like hormonal changes, may be the cause of your bleeding gums.  

Knowing when to come in for oral health treatment 

Stick to this rule of thumb: You need a regular cleaning every six months or so, and if you notice serious issues between these cleanings (like gums that bleed every time you floss, even if you’ve been doing it for a while), you should make an appointment with us.

Should I keep flossing even though my gums are bleeding? 

You should absolutely keep flossing in order to get rid of the plaque and tartar that’s causing the bleeding in the first place. After a week or so, you can see if the bleeding stays the same or worsens. If it does, it may be time to book an appointment. 

We’re happy to see you at our Campbell, California, office, whether it’s for a routine cleaning or a more intensive treatment. Just give us a call, or visit us online today.