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Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss Under My Dental Bridge?
How to Prevent Gum Bleeding When Flossing Under a Dental Bridge
Flossing under a dental bridge is essential, but what if your gums start bleeding? It’s a common concern for many people with dental bridges in Boca Raton. Bleeding during dental procedures sometimes happens but any persistent bleeding warrants medical attention.
We need to understand the different possible reasons and solutions for maintaining proper oral health. A few potential factors and remedies exist to help you maintain oral health stability; let’s break them down.
Why Do Gums Bleed When Flossing Under a Dental Bridge?
Plaque and Bacteria Build-Up
Food particles and bacteria get trapped in the gaps created by bridges. The buildup of plaque over time results in gum irritation. Development of untreated gum irritation leads to gum disease, which increases bleeding susceptibility during flossing.
Gum Sensitivity or Inflammation
Bleeding gums is a warning sign of inflammation that may signal the beginning stages of gingivitis. Swelling or tenderness of the gums around your dental crowns or false tooth needs immediate attention. You should not experience bleeding from your gums when you perform regular flossing.
Improper Flossing Technique
Aggressive flossing, along with the use of the wrong floss materials, can damage your gums. Dental bridges are supported by abutment teeth, so they require a special kind of floss compared to the regular floss we get in the market.
The standard flossing method fails to effectively remove all debris, while poor flossing results in gum damage. In this case, standard flosses fail to work properly, and poor flossing methods result in irritation of the gums.
Poorly Fitted Dental Bridge
A bridge that doesn’t fit well can put extra pressure on the surrounding teeth and gums. A poorly fitted bridge can also cause discomfort, bleeding, and irritation to the gums, which results in pain. If your bridge feels uncomfortable, it might be time for an adjustment.
How to Prevent Gum Bleeding When Flossing Under a Dental Bridge
Use the Right Flossing Tools
Standard floss won’t work well under a bridge. Instead, try:
- Floss threaders – Helps navigate under the bridge.
- Super floss – A thicker floss designed for bridges.
- Water flossers – A great option for gently removing debris without irritating the gums.
Adopt a Gentle Technique
Flossing under a bridge requires patience. Here’s how to do it safely:
- You can use a floss threader to pull floss beneath the dental bridge.
- Gently slide the floss between the teeth while cleaning both sides of the false tooth.
- Do not pull the floss with force toward your gums.
- To enhance protection, rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash.
Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush when brushing.
- You should use antibacterial mouthwash to prevent plaque accumulation.
- Visit your dental hygienist in Boca Raton for regular teeth cleaning to maintain healthy gums.
When to See a Dentist
Your gums need medical attention from the dental hygienist in Boca Raton, FL if you continue to have bleeding problems. Contact professional dental help whenever you notice:
- Persistent bleeding that doesn’t stop.
- Swollen or receding gums.
- Bad breath that won’t go away.
- Your bridge area experiences any sort of discomfort or pain.
A dentist will evaluate your bridge fit and determine whether you need gum disease treatment.
You should not disregard gum bleeding while flossing beneath your dental bridge. The causes of bleeding gums when flossing under a dental bridge include plaque accumulation, gum tissue inflammation, poor flossing technique, and incorrect bridge fit.
The good news? The right tools combined with gentle flossing methods can stop bleeding issues while safeguarding your oral hygiene. Consult Dr. Martone at Bright Horizons Dental if the bleeding does not stop. Your smile deserves it!
