Why Do My Gums Bleed After Flossing or a Cleaning?

Why do gums bleed after flossing or a cleaning?

The most common reasons are a new flossing habit, brushing too hard, and early gum disease. MouthHealthy from the ADA says there are many reasons your gums could bleed. In some cases, bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. If your gums bleed easily or bleed when you brush, MouthHealthy says to talk to your dentist about your oral health.

Healthy gums are firm to the touch, and Cleveland Clinic says they do not bleed or swell. So bleeding is a signal worth a look, even when it is small. This post helps you sort the likely causes. It cannot diagnose you.

What are the common causes?

The first four rows come from MouthHealthy, and the gingivitis description comes from Cleveland Clinic. Learn more about gingivitis and dental plaque in our glossary.

Is bleeding after flossing normal?

At first, it can be. MouthHealthy says new flossers may see bleeding that goes away in about a week. After that, it should stop. If your gums still bleed after a week or two of gentle, daily flossing, they may be inflamed.

Flossing also should not hurt. MouthHealthy says cleaning between your teeth should not cause pain, and that if it still hurts you should talk with your dentist. Use a gentle, rubbing motion and never snap the floss into the gums. Pick a tool that suits you. MouthHealthy lists string floss, dental picks, tiny brushes, and water flossers. Learn how to floss in the entry on flossing.

Why do gums bleed during a cleaning?

At a cleaning, the hygienist works along the gumline and in the spaces between teeth, where plaque and tartar collect. Inflamed gums bleed easily when touched. NIDCR says plaque and tartar contain bacteria that can trigger inflammation that damages the gums and the tissues around the teeth. Only a professional cleaning can remove tartar.

Some bleeding can also happen after a deeper cleaning. Cleveland Clinic says it is normal to have some bleeding after a deep dental cleaning, and to let your dentist know if you have excessive bleeding that does not stop. Our post on regular cleaning vs deep cleaning explains the difference.

If your gums bleed at each cleaning, ask your hygienist two things. Where is the bleeding worst? What can I change at home? A clear answer helps you aim your effort.

Who is more likely to have inflamed gums?

Cleveland Clinic says you may face a higher risk of gingivitis if you:

• Are pregnant or have other hormonal changes
• Do not take good care of your teeth, or have crooked teeth that are hard to clean
• Have diabetes
• Have a family history of gum disease
• Smoke or chew tobacco

Some medicines that cause dry mouth can also play a part, because saliva helps keep the mouth clean. If any of these apply to you, tell your dentist. It helps them read what they see in your gums.

What helps at home?

Try these steps for two weeks:

1. Brush twice a day for two minutes with a soft or extra-soft toothbrush, as MouthHealthy suggests.
2. Clean between your teeth once a day. Use floss, a pick, a tiny brush, or a water flosser.
3. Use gentle pressure. Do not snap floss into the gums.
4. Keep your regular dental visits.
5. If you smoke, know that NIDCR calls tobacco use the most significant risk factor for gum disease.

If bleeding is the same or worse after two weeks, call your dentist. Cleveland Clinic says that if you develop bleeding, tender or swollen gums, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Early detection matters.

Can pregnancy cause bleeding gums?

It can. MouthHealthy says some pregnant women develop pregnancy gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums that can cause swelling and tenderness, and the gums may bleed a little when brushing or flossing. If you are pregnant, tell your dentist and keep your visits. Do not wait for the gums to settle on their own after the baby arrives.

When should you call a dentist about bleeding gums?

Call if you notice any of these:

• Bleeding that continues beyond about a week of steady, gentle flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that pull away from the teeth
• Bad breath or a bad taste that does not go away
• Loose teeth or a change in how your teeth fit together

MouthHealthy lists these as warning signs of gum disease. Gum disease usually does not hurt, so a lack of pain does not mean a lack of problems. Our gum disease guide and our page on periodontal care explain what comes next.

Next step

Read about periodontal care at Town Center Dental, then call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment if your gums keep bleeding.