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 Carolina Dentistry in Mint Hill.

We won’t mince words. The answer is, “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 before, your gums might bleed the first few times you use 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 Carolina Dentistry in Mint Hill we want all our patients to brush and floss twice a day, and see us for regular checkups. We offer a wide range of general and cosmetic dentistry procedures. Call to schedule a checkup with us today!