Bleeding While Flossing: A Sign of Gum Disease?

If you notice a little pink when you floss, you may wonder whether it's normal. It isn't. At Eastpointe Family Dental Center, in Eastpointe, MI, Mark Solway, DDS, Aaron Zeevi, DDS, and Charles Taylor, DDS, frequently hear this concern from patients. 

Bleeding gums are often an early indicator of a developing oral health issue. Here’s what we want our patients to understand about what is happening beneath the surface and how we can help.

Understanding gum disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection and inflammation of the gums and bone that support the teeth. It develops in stages, ranging from mild inflammation to severe tissue damage.

• Gingivitis: the earliest and mildest stage. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. The good news is that this stage is reversible with professional care and good hygiene.
• Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it advances to periodontitis. The inner layer of the gum and bone pulls away from the teeth, forming pockets. These spaces collect debris and become infected.
• Advanced periodontitis: In the most severe stage, the fibers and bone supporting the teeth are destroyed, leading to tooth loss.

Approximately 42% of Americans 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease (with about 8% having severe periodontitis). For adults aged 65 and older, the prevalence is approximately 60%.  

But just because gum disease is common doesn’t mean you should brush it off.

Causes of gum disease

Beyond poor oral hygiene and lack of flossing, risk factors include tobacco use, which weakens the immune system and makes it harder for gum tissues to heal. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or menopause, can also make the gums more susceptible to inflammation. Additionally, chronic stress, underlying conditions like diabetes, and certain genetic predispositions increase the likelihood of developing severe gum disease. 

Risks and systemic impacts

Left untreated, gum disease carries significant risks. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and contribute to other conditions.

• Heart disease: Inflammation in the mouth increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar makes the gums more susceptible to infection, and advanced gum disease makes it harder to control blood sugar levels.
• Respiratory infections: Bacteria from the mouth can travel to the lungs, aggravating respiratory conditions.

Prevention and treatment

When you visit our Eastpointe office for your bi-yearly checkups and cleanings, we evaluate your gums and create a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment plans range from deep cleaning and scaling to surgical interventions, depending on the severity of the infection.

The best way to beat gum disease, however, is to prevent it. That means maintaining a consistent home routine. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Routine cleanings at our practice are also essential for removing hardened tartar that you can't clean at home.

If you suspect you have gum disease or are overdue for a dental cleaning, contact the experts at Eastpointe Family Dental Center.