Quote:
Originally Posted by genuinegirly
I brush 3x/day and use mouthwash 2x/day. I do not floss often because I dislike how it makes my gums bleed. I was taught a special method of brushing that is supposed to strengthen gums: brush gently from gum to the tip of the teeth. Never had a cavity, though there has always been some concern with my bleeding gums.
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I've had the problem with bleeding gums too. I had a great dentist give me a no-fucking-around summary of dental health mere weeks before he retired (I still go to his practice through another dentist).
We talk a lot about brushing, but flossing is the key. I used to use Sensodyne because of sensitivity to cold. This guy informed me that it is often the case that using a toothpaste like Sensodyne could mask more serious problems because it desensitizes the nerves. He also said that tooth sensitivity problems often stem from gum problems based mostly on a lack of flossing.
I had a problem with tooth sensitivity, but whenever I flossed, my gums bled. He said that this is most likely because of my lack of flossing. I was never a regular flosser....until that moment. He all but guaranteed that the sensitivity and bleeding would cease if I were to floss regularly.
He was right.
I haven't used Sensodyne for over five years, and I have no problems with sensitivity whatsoever. Moreover, I don't have a problem with bleeding gums anymore.
The biggest impact on my own improving gum health was establishing a regular flossing habit. The only time my gums bleed now is when I fall out of the habit. I'm not perfect, but I used to never floss. Now, the hygienist informs me that my gums are in great shape; they have even improved over time. He said flossing even once a week is better than never.
EDIT:
As an aside, anyone who doesn't floss or doesn't like the idea of flossing, try this if you haven't.
The next time you brush, take the time to brush your teeth really well. Not vigorously or hard or anything, just thoroughly. Take two or three minutes to get your teeth really clean all over. Rinse away.
Next, get a bit of floss and give it a go.
How clean were your teeth after all?
Report your findings here.