See Your Dentist if Flossing Starts to Hurt
Posted on 1/15/2026 by Robert F Walker Jr. PC |
 Have you ever been happily flossing away, keeping up with your usual oral care routine, when suddenly, a sharp pain shoots through your gums? Ouch! While flossing is a vital part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy, pain isn't normal. Let's explore why your gums might be hurting when you floss and what you should do about it.
Why Does Flossing Sometimes Hurt?
There are several reasons why flossing might cause you discomfort. One of the most common is gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease. When plaque and bacteria build up along your gumline, it causes inflammation. This inflammation makes your gums tender and more likely to bleed or hurt when you floss.
Another potential cause is that you might be flossing too aggressively. It’s important to be gentle! Using a sawing motion or snapping the floss too hard against your gums can irritate them and lead to pain.
Sometimes, pain while flossing can indicate a problem with a tooth itself. A cavity between your teeth, especially near the gumline, can become sensitive when disturbed by the floss. A cracked or chipped tooth in that area can also cause pain.
Existing dental work, like fillings or crowns, can also be a source of sensitivity. If a filling is old or damaged, it might create a gap where bacteria can accumulate, leading to inflammation and pain when you floss.
What Should You Do If Flossing Hurts?
First, don’t stop flossing altogether! While it might be tempting to avoid the painful area, neglecting it will only make the problem worse. Instead, try flossing more gently. Use a soft, waxed floss that slides more easily between your teeth. Focus on using a gentle up-and-down motion instead of sawing back and forth.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This can help soothe irritated gums and reduce inflammation. You can do this several times a day.
Pay close attention to where the pain is located. Is it always in the same spot? Does it happen only when you floss a particular tooth? This information can be helpful for your dentist.
When to See Your Dentist
If the pain persists for more than a few days, or if you notice other symptoms like bleeding gums, swelling, or bad breath, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Don’t wait! Early intervention is key to preventing more serious problems.
Your dentist can examine your gums and teeth to determine the cause of the pain. They may take X-rays to check for cavities or other underlying issues. Based on their findings, they can recommend the appropriate treatment.
Treatment options might include a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, antibiotics to treat a gum infection, or restoration dentistry to repair a damaged tooth or filling. In some cases, you may be referred to a periodontist, a specialist in gum disease.
Prevention is Key
The best way to avoid pain while flossing is to maintain good oral care habits. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. A healthy mouth is a happy mouth!
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