Why You’re Bleeding When You Floss

And why inflammation in your mouth might be telling you something about your whole body (especially if you’re like me and live with endo)

Let’s just say it—bleeding gums are not a personality trait.

No judgment here—only care. If flossing only happens when something’s caught between your teeth, you’re not alone. But your gums have been trying to tell you something, and I think it’s time we listen

Bleeding when you floss is one of the most common things I see in the hygiene chair. And while it might seem like a harmless “oops,” it’s often the first whisper of inflammation in your body. The thing is—if you’re like me, and you’re living with something like endometriosis (or any chronic condition that feeds on inflammation)… those whispers matter.

So let’s break it down: why it’s happening, why it matters, and what it could be saying about your whole body—not just your gums.

Okay, but why are your gums bleeding?

Here’s the tea: your mouth is a bacterial hotspot. When plaque builds up and hangs out too long between your teeth and gums, your body triggers an immune response. ➡️ That means inflammation. ➡️ That means gingivitis. ➡️ And that means, yes—bleeding. It’s not the floss causing it. It’s the bacteria that’s been chillin’ like a villain for days (or weeks… or months ). The good news? Gingivitis is 100% reversible. But you have to actually commit to consistent home care—not just flossing right before your dentist appointment and hoping I won’t notice. (Spoiler: I always notice.)

The Plot Thickens: What Happens If You Ignore It?

If you ignore bleeding gums, it can lead to:

Periodontitis (chronic gum disease = bone loss, recession, $$$ treatment)
Increased risk of heart disease and diabetes
Higher systemic inflammation throughout the body
And maybe even links to hormonal imbalance and reproductive health

Yep. Your gums are out here waving red flags—and not just literally.

From the Gums to the Gut: Let’s Talk Endo

Here’s where it gets personal. I live with endometriosis, and if you do too, you know it’s more than just a “bad period.” It’s a chronic, inflammatory condition that affects your entire system—from your hormones to your digestion to your energy. Guess what else it can affect? Your oral health. When my endo flares, I’m more sensitive to pain, inflammation, and fatigue. On those low-energy days, brushing and flossing can feel like an Olympic event. But those are actually the days I need it most—because inflammation doesn’t just show up in the uterus and call it a day. It’s systemic. That means your gums are in the chat too.

What Helps (When You’re Tired, Achy, and Just Over It)

Here’s what I recommend to my patients—and what I do myself on the days my body feels like it’s short-circuiting:

Oral Health Habits:

Floss daily (even if it’s one quadrant at a time)
Use a soft toothbrush and go easy—think gentle, not aggressive
Warm salt water rinse for soothing the gums
Tongue scrape to reduce bacterial load

Anti-Inflammatory Endo Habits:

Snack on berries, walnuts, and avocado—they fight inflammation AND taste bomb
Sip turmeric tea or warm lemon water
Hydrate like you mean it
Don’t skip your self-care oral routine—even when everything hurts

Final Thoughts (And a Gentle Call-Out)

If your gums are bleeding… your body is talking. If your endo is flaring… your body is begging for calm. You don’t have to do it all at once. Just don’t ignore the signals. As a hygienist and someone managing endo, I promise—small routines lead to big relief. And if no one’s told you this today: you deserve to feel better.

You are not gross. You are not lazy. You’re just tired. And this tired girl flossed today. So can you.

Want a little help?

Coming soon: My free “Floss or Die” mini guide for babes with big feelings, bleeding gums, and chronic inflammation. Sign up to get early access (and maybe some cute printable inspo too).