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Sass
Lv 4
Sass asked in HealthDental · 10 years ago

Cut my gum while flossing, now it's red and swollen... how can I remedy this?

A couple of days ago, I think I cut part of my gum while flossing. It bled a little bit, but didn't seem to do much else. Later, and for the past couple of days since, I've noticed the gum area around that tooth and another one where I cut it with floss is red and a little swollen. There is some mild pain here and there throughout the day, but it's mostly uncomfortable pressure/throbbing, like I have something sharp stuck between my teeth or something.

Has anyone experienced this before? I'm worried that I caused a big infection and my teeth are going to fall out or something. How can I help this to heal? Do I need to go to a dentist for this? I'd like to avoid that if I can since I'm a student and I don't have any insurance. Thanks in advance for the advice.

4 Answers

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  • 10 years ago
    Favorite Answer

    I'm glad you're flossing. People forget the importance of flossing. As far as cutting your gums with the flossing tape Is quite common. You do not have to go see a dentist UNLESS the cut does not heal in about 2 weeks. You can dilute water and hydrogen peroxide and rinse your mouth with it. You can also rinse with antibacterial mouth wash (recommended listerine) to kill all bacteria in the wound to prevent for getting an abscess. Do not floss that area until completely healed. And do not worry, your teeth will not fall out because of a simple flossing mistake. I suggest you research on how to properly floss to avoid cutting yourself again. Good luck

    Source(s): RDA 7 years
  • Anonymous
    10 years ago

    First off let me say its unusual to cut your gum with floss. Second, if the gum is swollen and bleeding it sounds like you may have an infection. I would for sure make an appointment to see your dentist or a doctor (asap) only because an infection, if left untreated, can cause major problems. They can give you medication to treat the infection. Im sure you are uncomfortable as it is, go ahead and make the appointment and dont let it cost you more pain or more money down the road. http://dentistincedarpark.com/ Thanks---I hope this helps...

  • Anonymous
    5 years ago

    Try Sensodyne toothpaste (or any of the de-sensitizing toothpastes). In addition to using it as a toothpaste, you could put a blob on the hurting tooth. Or maybe Orajel, which numbs tooth pain (across the counter). Either way, be gentle with that area for a week. Should be ok. If not, call dentist.

  • 10 years ago

    well,ya can try salt in warm water rinse,but,ya may have an abcess,which may need antibiotics and tooth repair...if persists,see dentist asap.........

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