A member asked:

Hello, i pick at my gums making sure i dig right in also scrapping the gums so it bleeds. i do it to most of my top front gums. my question is what co?

14 doctors weighed in across 5 answers
Dr. Gary Sandler answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Gum care: What you want to do is clean the surfaces of the teeth by brushing/flossing properly. Get your dentist or dental hygienist to go over the technique with you to make sure you are doing it correctly, thereby improving your dental health without damaging your gums. You don't want to induce bleeding. If you take proper care the gums will be healthy on their own. You wouldn't scrape your knees -> bleed

Answered 6/7/2017

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Incomplete question: Your question did not come through in its entirety, however what you described seems to fall under obsessive compulsive behavior and you should seek counseling for it. You may consult this site for information on this topic: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/index.shtml

Answered 6/24/2018

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Not good: You are probably doing irreparable damage to your gums the underlying bone, and the ligament that holds the teeth into the bone. Please have a Dentist evaluate your tissues and revise your technique.

Answered 6/8/2017

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Dr. Jerry Brown answered

Specializes in Prosthodontics

Perfecting Home Care: Good day; At the preventive ( prophylactic) visit review the various home care techniques. Thorough utilization of a thick threaded floss, manipulation of interdental plastic sticks and most importantly thorough toothbrush technique. Be sure your dentist/ hygienist discuss and observe you preforming your improved home care.

Answered 6/10/2017

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Dr. Anthony Sharber answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Gingivitis : If your gums bleed from picking and manipulating the tissues you probably have gingivitis at the least and periodontitis possibly. Please see your dentist to instruct you how to thoroughly and effectively clean your mouth daily and follow the instructions explicitly.

Answered 6/8/2017

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