Help! My gums hurt when I floss!

By no stretch is it rare for your gums to hurt during and after flossing. Even some bleeding is to be expected. This is especially true if you have not flossed in a long time. However, if your gums do indeed hurt when you floss, and unbearably so, there are some things you can do.

Be Gentle

Perhaps the most obvious way to combat gum soreness and bleeding is to be gentle. One of the most common occurrences of these gum problems is over-aggressive flossing. In other words, if you are too rough on your gums while flossing, either because you are out of practice or because you are in a hurry, soreness and hurting is to be expected. Instead, try taking your time and be gentle. Also, if you are just starting out, be patient and consistent, your gums will become more conditioned over time.

Use an Alternative Method

If being consistent and gentle does not work, there are other alternative methods of flossing that you can try. You can also try a water floss machine, or what is sometimes called a water pick. The device essentially shoots water into the crevasses between your teeth, and in other areas of your mouth, in order to dislodge food and plaque. These oral instruments also come with different attachments that allow you to reach many of the hard to see and reach areas of your mouth. And lastly, you can always buy floss that is not as abrasive to your gums. There is floss that comes with soft and gentle coatings that will do less harm to your gums while they are adjusting to the good oral hygiene habit you are creating.

Flossing is one of the easiest parts of oral hygiene to overlook. When you first start out, it is common that you may want to stop because of the pain it can initially cause. However, if you try one, or all, of the above mentioned methods, you will give yourself the best chance of being success with your flossing, and it won’t hurt as much.

For more flossing tips, schedule an appointment at our Boulder, CO office and askDr. John Montoya or a member of our team!

Best Dentist in Boulder Colorado!

Dr. John Montoya is your family friendly dentist that specializes in General, Cosmetic, and Implant dentistry in Boulder, Colorado. Schedule your appointment or Contact us today!

Share:

Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on pinterest
Pinterest
Share on linkedin
LinkedIn

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

On Key

Related Posts

Teeth Whitening in Boulder Boulder Dental Designs dentist in Boulder Colorado Dr. John Montoya Dr. Pearl Lai

Teeth Whitening in Boulder

If you’re looking for a whiter smile, look no further. Our teeth whitening procedure in Boulder, Colorado, can lighten your teeth several shades in just

Teeth Whitening in Boulder Boulder Cosmetic Dentist Boulder Dental Designs dentist in Boulder Colorado Dr. John Montoya Dr. Pearl Lai

Boulder Cosmetic Dentist

Millions of people are unhappy with their smiles. But there’s no need to feel self-conscious any longer. Boulder Dental Designs offers cosmetic dentist and can

Dental Implants in Boulder Boulder Dental Designs dentist in Boulder Colorado Dr. John Montoya Dr. Pearl Lai

Dental Implants in Boulder

Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious and even lead to health problems. You’re not alone – millions of people are missing teeth. At Boulder

Surprise!

New Patient
SPECIAL!

Need your teeth whitened?
Receive FREE Whitening
with a paid New Patient Exam, Cleaning, and Radiographs

Boulder Dental Designs dentist in Boulder Colorado Dr. John Montoya Dr. Pearl Lai