Bleeding Gums - BAD or GOOD?

Bleeding gums is not a signal to stop brushing—on the contrary, it’s a signal that you have gum disease and need to floss more.

Unless you’re cutting into your gums with the floss, tenderness and bleeding are the result of bacteria having taken up residence between your teeth. And you get it out by flossing. So even if you’re having visions of Marathon Man as that silky strand turns red, bear with it because you can actually cure a minor case of gum disease, or gingivitis, by flossing.

Bleeding should subside after a few days of flossing. If it doesn’t, see your dentist.