Practicing a good oral hygiene regime that includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing the mouth with antiseptic mouthwash keeps your teeth and gums healthy. Sometimes you may notice your gums hurt after flossing. Does this mean that you should avoid flossing from now on? Is it usual to experience pain and bleeding from gums after flossing your teeth? Let’s find the answers.
Floss may not be the only reason
It’s possible for your gums to hurt after flossing, but a floss thread may not be the only thing to blame. Other factors can also contribute to painful gums.
You can end up with sore gums if you floss too much and do it vigorously. We recommend flossing gently and only one time a day.
If your gums swell or bleed while flossing gently, there’s something else bad going on. Some factors causing this issue may be benign, while others can be severe.
Canker Sores
If your gums hurt after flossing due to canker sores, you don’t need to panic. These mouth lesions are non-contagious and can bring along plenty of symptoms, including sore gums. Canker sores usually have a red appearance. Some may have a white top layer. These bumps can cause soreness, but they get better soon. You don’t have to worry much about canker sores as they heal on their own without much effort.
But if your canker sores appear to worsen or persist for more than two weeks, consult your dentist. To schedule an appointment with Friendswood Smile Dentistry in Friendswood, Texas, call (832) 895 1905.
Minor Burns
Minor burns can also make your gums painful after flossing. This cause is also isn’t worrisome. An oral burn can occur if you eat or drink something extremely hot. This can cause a burn that hurts, giving you gum soreness and pain in the roof of your mouth.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious cause why your gums can hurt after flossing. Similar to canker sores, oral cancer can appear in the form of a bump causing pain to some individuals and not to others.
Oral cancer can also make your cheeks, throat, and tongue painful. The good news is that with early diagnosis, it’s possible to fully treat oral cancer.
Gum Disease
Another reason for painful gums while flossing is gum disease. In usual cases, your gums shouldn’t bleed when flossing, but if bleeding occurs, there may be something wrong with your oral health. Apart from bleeding, gum disease can also incur the following oral issues.
- swollen gums
- halitosis
- loose teeth
- gum recession
If the sore gums don’t get better themselves or last for more than 10-15 days, immediately consult your dentist.
How To Floss Properly
- After the gum pain goes away and there’s no bleeding, start flossing again. And do it regularly.
- Use nothing else than dental floss to clean between teeth.
- Floss gently, and don’t snap the floss with pressure.
- When flossing, be careful not to damage your gums.
Even if these techniques aren’t effective for you, talk to your dentists to find alternatives.