If you’ve observed that your gums are a little red and hurt to touch, do not brush it off. You may have gingivitis, the first sign of gum disease.
Although you may brush frequently and see your dental expert for set up examinations, your teeth typically steal the show. Even when you discover your gums ache or swollen, you might error the pain for a cavity. But gum health is very important, and should be made a top concern when looking after your oral health. After all, this tissue is trusted to secure your teeth and keep them healthy, and while gum disease is the perpetrator in most cases, sensitive gums can be a symptom of other oral irritants, too.
Why Do My Gums Hurt to Touch?
Swelling and inflammation are often signs of gingivitis, however it’s not the only condition that can leave your gums feeling less than robust. It’s understandable to presume tender gums are the outcome of gingivitis, but this isn’t really constantly the case. When your gums end up being sensitive to cold and hot – or swollen and sore after applying moderate pressure (when brushing your teeth, for instance)– gingivitis is just one of the possible causes. Consider your symptoms to see if it’s the outcome of among the following surprising causes of sensitive gums:
1. Brushing Too Hard
Some people’ gums can be sensitive to pressure, especially when suffering from gum disease, so brushing too tough or using a highly abrasive tooth paste can leave them feeling irritable. You do not need a stiff tooth brush to get an excellent tidy; rather, it’s about strategy. Consider a soft-bristled tooth brush, which uses softer bristles and polishing cups that enable you to concentrate on brushing more carefully. Massage your gums in back and forth movements rather than brush roughly to get rid of bacteria that may have currently calcified into tartar (which needs dental support). And, if you do see your toothpaste aggravates your gums, think about one made particularly for delicate mouths.
2. Hormonal Changes
Believe it or not, changes in your hormonal agents can in fact result in delicate gums too. Gums become more delicate, inning accordance with the American Dental Association (ADA), because hormone changes– such as those typical during pregnancy– can change the way your body connects with the bacteria you introduce to your mouth. This can result in gum and tooth decay, so it’s important to see your dental professional as set up during pregnancy, and point out any modifications in oral health to your OB/GYN to avoid enduring damage.
3. Food or Appliance Irritation
Particular acidic foods and new oral home appliances can leave your gums feeling delicate and sore, respectively. Acidic foods, in particular, can cause irritation and even visible sores on the tender tissue of the gumline. Canker sores as well as gums that are recessed can be an unfortunate side-effect to consuming things like citrus fruit, soda and sugary brands of yogurt in excess. Therefore, attempt getting rid of acidic foods from your diet, and see if your sensitivity goes away over the next couple of days. The same goes for oral devices: Braces, retainers, dentures and mouth guards can all tug at your gumline, leaving it extra tender if they’ve temporarily exposed more sensitive underlying tissue. In some cases, this sensitivity will disappear as your mouth adapts to the home appliance. If your gums continue to harm, nevertheless, see your dental practitioner or orthodontist to ensure the right fit with less level of sensitivity.
Gum disease is typically the reason for gum discomfort, but it’s not always the reason of gums hurt when touched. Gums that are sensitive without bleeding may be trying to inform you a various story. Before associating the pain to gingivitis, think about some of the other causes – you might be surprised at which of your practices could be causing sore gums.