Why do my gums hurt when I brush my teeth?

Why do my gums hurt when I brush?

Cleveland Clinic says bleeding is usually linked to plaque, tartar and bacteria building up along the gumline, most often because a person is not flossing daily, which can lead to gingivitis, where gums become irritated and swollen and bleed easily. Other causes include pressing too hard when brushing, using a hard-bristled or worn-out brush, hormonal changes from menstruation, birth control, pregnancy or menopause, puberty and medical conditions such as poorly controlled or undiagnosed diabetes, leukemia, hemophilia and vitamin C or K deficiencies.

Why do my gums hurt when I floss?

Cleveland Clinic says flossing too aggressively or going too far below the gumline can hurt the gums, and that if you are new to flossing, bleeding can occur because inflamed gums are being cleaned, though it says routine bleeding during flossing is not normal for healthy gums. Occasional bleeding can happen, but frequent bleeding suggests a deeper issue. Healthy gums should settle with daily flossing.

How long does it take to stop?

Cleveland Clinic says bleeding should typically stop within a few weeks as gums get healthier with daily flossing, and that with consistent flossing it should taper off within a few weeks. If it does not, see a dentist. Do not stop flossing because it bleeds; Cleveland Clinic says daily flossing reduces gum inflammation and creates gum health.

How should you floss and brush?

Cleveland Clinic says to start with about 24 inches of floss, wrap it around your middle fingers and gently move it up and down along each tooth, using a clean section as you go. It suggests a soft-bristle brush at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline, an electric brush with pressure control if you brush hard, and brushing twice a day for about two minutes. Professional cleanings about twice a year remove buildup and check gum health.

Why do my gums itch when I floss?

The sources we read do not describe itchy gums with flossing. Cleveland Clinic lists inflamed, swollen gums from plaque, and the NHS lists gums that are swollen, red and sore. Itching can accompany inflammation or healing, which is general and flagged. If it persists, mention it to your dentist, and see our guides on itchy gums.

When is it not just plaque?

Cleveland Clinic says if you have flossed regularly for years and bleeding is new, see a dentist or periodontist, and that frequent bleeding may signal a systemic condition such as diabetes, so an evaluation is recommended. Its swollen gums page says to see a dentist for swelling that lasts more than two weeks, a bump on the gums, very painful gums, or swelling that persists with regular brushing and flossing. The NHS says to see a dentist urgently for very sore or swollen gums, loose or falling-out teeth, ulcers or red patches in the mouth or a lump.

What will a dentist do?

Cleveland Clinic says a dentist or periodontist removes plaque, tartar and bacteria, with options including scaling and root planing and antimicrobial mouthwash, and that gingivitis is reversible with proper care but can come back. The NHS says early on a dentist may advise better cleaning habits such as interdental brushes, quitting smoking and a hygienist clean. Our guides on gingivitis explain more.

Questions to ask your dentist

Take these to your appointment.

• Is this gingivitis, or am I brushing or flossing too hard?
• Show me how to floss and brush without hurting my gums.
• Could a medicine, hormones or a medical condition be involved?
• Do I need a professional cleaning?
• When should the bleeding stop?

Frequently asked questions