Gingival hemorrhage during interdental cleaning, commonly observed when using dental floss, signifies the presence of inflammation in the gingival tissues. This bleeding, often perceived as alarming, typically indicates an underlying issue with gum health rather than being an inevitable consequence of the cleaning process itself.
Maintaining healthy gums is paramount for overall oral and systemic health. Consistent and effective interdental cleaning contributes significantly to the prevention of periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease linked to various systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes complications. Historically, the recognition of gingival bleeding as a marker of oral health problems has led to advancements in preventative dental care strategies and the development of improved interdental cleaning tools.