Submitted by: Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS

When you floss or brush vigorously and your gums hurt or bleed, that is a sign that they are open to potential infection. One of the reasons the gums or periodontal region bleeds is because it is already suffering from minor inflammation or low grade swelling.

When we have any injury in our body, blood flow to that area will increase which is why injuries swell. The extra flow of blood brings antibodies and healthy nutrients to the wounded area while it also flushing away and take out toxins and bacteria. So the same process happens in the gums. Because there is more blood there trying to protect you from potential gum disease your gums may not appear to be swollen and may not hurt but they will bleed because of the presence of extra blood in the area.

It is usually nothing to be alarmed about by mild bleeding for someone just starting to floss. Unless there is lots of bleeding, soreness, swelling, or pain it will most likely clear up and the bleeding will stop after a few days of routine flossing and brushing. That s because the flossing and brushing is healthy for your gums. Neglect that kind of daily practice, though, and the gums may again become affected in a minor way by a build-up of inflammation which could start the process of reactive bleeding again.

It is also possible that the way you are brushing or flossing your teeth can be detrimental to your gums. Using a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard, for instance, can irritate the soft tissue of the gums and cause them to bleed from the abrasion of the bristles. That s why many dentists recommend that their patients use only soft bristle toothbrushes. Consult your doctor, dentist, or dental hygienist to find out what type of brush is best for you. Also flossing too aggressively can cause bleeding because the dental floss may actually cut the gums sort of in the same that a sheet of paper that is mishandled can cause a paper cut. Be aware of how to floss by having your dentist teach you the proper method, have the dentist also show you the proper movement to use when brushing, and choose a toothbrush and type of dental floss that works well and is appropriate for you. Your dentist may have you acquire an electric toothbrush, too, because these have automatic circular or up and down motion that can be ideal for cleaning the teeth and gums and stimulating the periodontal tissue without being too harsh or abrasive.

But by following a recommended regimen of brushing and flossing your gums will soon get healthy and should no longer bleed noticeably when you brush them or use floss. A daily recommended dose of vitamin C either from sources like oranges or from vitamin supplements is also known to help reduce periodontal bleeding. Taking care of gums is one of the most important steps in your overall dental health, and ensuring that they stay in great shape without inflammation will ensure you will have no reason now or in the future to concern yourself with periodontal disease.

About the Author: Dr. Karl Smith has been in dental practice for over twenty-seven years. His specialties are

periodontics, dental anesthesia and implants

. People come from near and far to experience the comfort and professionalism of his office and patient-oriented staff.

drkarlsmith.com

Source:

isnare.com

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