As dentists, we are committed to helping maintain the health of your gums. Daily brushing is important for healthy teeth, but it also keeps our gums nice and healthy.
Healthy gums are pale pink, while inflamed gums offer a reddish hue, appear swollen and bleed easily. Here are five reasons why gums can hurt – and gum disease isn’t always the problem!
1. Brushing and flossing too vigorously
There is a possibility of brushing too hard. Good technique is very important when brushing your teeth. Gums are sensitive, so rubbing too hard will damage the tissue and cause inflammation. Massage the gums and teeth, rather than attacking them with brute force. Circular movements are best, so the use of electric toothbrushes is highly recommended.
It is recommended to choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and replace it every three months or sooner if the bristles are damaged. Be careful when flossing. Pass the floss gently along the curve of each tooth, with small movements as if it were a saw, controlling the force.
2. Abrasions
Abrasions are often caused by ill-fitting dentures or fixed appliances. Dentures, braces and other attachments often irritate the mouth and gums, especially when they are first fitted. Over time, your mouth tissue will get used to them, but it may take a few weeks for the tissue to harden. You may need to use some repair gel with hyaluronic acid for a few days.
3. Úlceras Bucales
Mouth ulcers or canker sores are very painful. They are often caused by an injury, such as biting your cheek, or by autoimmune problems. If you have a gum ulcer, it will be painful. Use a topical treatment and if it has not healed within 7 days, see your dentist.
4. Hormones
Surprisingly, hormones can affect our oral health. Some women experience sore gums when their hormones increase, for example, during pregnancy or menstruation.
Some women have sore, swollen and bleeding gums when they get their period, but the problem resolves a few days later. Even taking oral contraceptives can affect gum health.
If you are a woman and notice a discernible pattern to your gum problems, hormones could be to blame.
Keep in mind that when it comes to gum problems, prevention is always better than cure. That’s why it’s important to schedule dental checkups at least twice a year. Your dentist can catch problems before they become major. Also, if you brush your teeth twice a day and make time to floss once a day, you’ll gain a healthy habit that your gums will appreciate. Finally, we recommend avoiding sugary drinks and foods and drinking plenty of water to rinse your mouth after eating.
