If you notice that your gums are bleeding, especially when you floss your teeth, it could mean that there is a build-up of plaque on your teeth; plaque carries germs, which invade the healthy tissues around the teeth. If you do not remove plaque, it will build up and harden into tartar.

Due to this build up, the gums will become irritated and swollen, and cause bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth. This condition is called Gingivitis and it is considered the first stage of gum disease. In addition to bleeding gums, you may experience other warning signs such as swollen, red or tender gums, recurring bad breath or taste in the mouth, loose teeth, or in extreme cases, a change in the alignment of your teeth. If gingivitis isn’t treated, then it can progress into a more severe state called Periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss. In most cases, gum disease in its early stages is a reversible condition and can be easily treated; it is very important not to ignore the early signs of bleeding gums.

There are some risk factors involved with Gingivitis such as smoking or chewing tobacco, diabetes, taking certain medications, crooked teeth, broken fillings, genetics, and certain underlying medical conditions.

A few ways to clear up Gingivitis and avoid treatments such as surgery are scaling and root planning, with scalers or laser used to remove tartar. Some prescribed medication can also be used to treat Gingivitis. In order to prevent Gingivitis, ensure that you maintain good oral hygiene by flossing and brushing your teeth twice a day.

The information provided is for general information purposes only and not intended to replace professional care. Please consult your physician or dentist for advice and diagnoses so you can be properly treated for your specific situation.