If My Gums Bleed, Should I Stop Flossing?

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bleeding gums Staten Island

If your gums bleed when you floss your teeth, should you drop flossing from your dental health routine? We’re asked about this from time to time at Staten Island Dental Care.

Our answer is short and right to the point: “No!”

Bleeding is probably a sign that you need to clean your teeth and gums more thoroughly—not leave them alone. It is all but impossible to clean effectively between teeth without using floss or an interdental brush.

If you have never made flossing a habit, your gums might bleed the first few times you do it. The bleeding may be due to gum inflammation, the beginnings of gum disease. Keep flossing gently and the bleeding usually stops within a week or two.

Gum disease is extremely common, and is a leading cause of tooth loss among adults. Healthy teeth and gums are essential for good dental health.

At Staten Island Dental Care we want all our patients to brush and floss twice a day, and see us for regular checkups. We treat gum disease. Patients from all over Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Bayonne come to us for general and restorative dentistry, and much more. Call to schedule an appointment with us today!

Contact Staten Island Dental Care – Dr. Frederick Hecht:

347-695-4380

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1520 Richmond Ave
Staten Island, New York
10314

 

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