Reasons Your Gums Hurt and How to Relieve It
Table of Contents
- Why do my gums hurt?
- What are some causes of gum pain?
- How to avoid gum pain?
- Should you floss before or after brushing?
Why do my gums hurt?
Your gums can hurt for various reasons, both temporary and chronic. Recognizing the cause of gum pain is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
What are some causes of gum pain?
- Gum disease – This includes gingivitis or periodontitis, resulting from plaque and tartar buildup on teeth. Untreated gum inflammation can lead to bone loss.
- Canker sore – Small, painful ulcers that appear on the gums. These sores can arise due to various reasons like trauma or allergies.
- Hard toothbrush bristles – Using a hard-bristled brush can cause enamel and gum tissue damage, leading to pain and sensitivity.
- Hormonal changes – Changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to swollen, red, and painful gums.
How to avoid gum pain?
Maintaining oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing can prevent gum pain. Regular dental checkups, typically every six months, can further ensure gum health and detect potential issues early on.
Should you floss before or after brushing?
It's recommended to floss before brushing. Flossing first removes plaque and food debris between teeth, allowing better fluoride retention from toothpaste during brushing. Learn more about flossing here.
Additional Insights:
- About 47% of adults in the U.S. have gum disease, the leading cause of tooth loss among adults, according to the American Dental Association.
- Canker sores affect around 20% of adults in their lifetime.
- Toothaches are a common reason for dentist visits, with 15% of adults experiencing gum pain occasionally.
- Regular dental checkups can prevent gum pain and other dental issues.
Dr. Thomas is a general dentist that loves sharing information about all aspects of dentistry, but is passionate about digital and implant dentistry. Dr. Thomas received his DMD degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and continues to find helpful ways to inform and educate people about dental procedures and products.
Are you looking for a second opinion? Dr. Thomas is the CEO of Opinion Two Nonprofit Organization. Opinion Two is available online or on mobile app and it allows patients to receive dental second opinions with top US-licensed dentists. All proceeds are used to benefit future generations of dentists through scholarships and benefits to pre-dental programs.