I've got really swollen gums...?

Question

I know it's wrong not to do it, but flossing isn't something I incorporate into my hygiene regime! So today for some strange reason I just decided to give it a go (wish I hadn't now!).

Anyway, I flossed my teeth in the afternoon, and as soon as I had finished dinner a few hours later, a part of my gum started to swell up. It's not a big area - just a small area between 2 teeth - but it has really swollen up and I'm a little concerned because this has never happened to me before.

I thought flossing was meant to avoid these things from happening, instead I think it has caused it. Why do you all think? I do remember that from that very area between the two teeth, the floss did take out a big ball of plaque and maybe food from dinner has got caught between the gap? Maybe it's just because my gums aren't used to it and they need time to adjust? Maybe my gums are too sensitive for flossing? I don't know but I would really appreciate an experienced opinion.

Answer 1

If you have bad gums flossing all of a sudden will irritate it and cause inflammation with swelling. Once you start to keep the area cleaner the inflammation gets less and less and the flossing becomes less irritating.  If you floss hard it can cut the gums.  Try to be gental with circular up and down motions.  Rinse after w/ fluoride.

Answer 2

Arrrr! Ye got the scurvey!

Ye better eat up on yer fruits and vegetables. mainly the citrus

Arrrr!

Answer 3

Brush lightly and continue flossing gently and rinse with salt water.