Irritated Gums

Gum irritation or pain can be caused by a few different conditions. Gum pain does not always begin right away, and the source may be minor, or it could turn into something serious. Gum problems can be the result of gum disease, canker sores, use of chewing tobacco, changes in hormones, an abscessed tooth or oral cancer. Most of these issues can be resolved without too much concern, if they are caught early enough.

Addressing Gum Disease

One of the most common sources of irritated gums is gum disease. In the early stages, gums may be puffy or swollen. Bleeding may occur when you brush or floss, and your gums may take on a bright pink or red color. You may not feel any pain at this stage, but the symptoms of disease are clear.

Without proper treatment, this early stage, known as gingivitis, will intensify into periodontal disease, which causes the gums to pull away from the teeth. Infection forms in the resulting pockets. The longer the condition is left untreated, the worse it becomes. Eventually, the infection begins to dissolve the bone around the teeth, causing the teeth to loosen. In very advanced cases of periodontal disease, the teeth may become so loose they literally fall out.

Tobacco Use

Chewing tobacco may seem less harmful than smoking, but in reality, it is not. It stains the teeth and gums and can cause gum disease. Placing tobacco between the gums and cheeks is more harmful than smoking because it can lead to oral cancer. Often, its use leads to sores in the mouth and on the gums.

Hormonal Changes

Females experience hormonal changes that can impact their gums. Puberty is a time when more blood flows to the gums. This can cause them to feel tender and painful. This extra blood flow can also cause the gums to feel swollen.

Pregnancy is another time during which a woman may experience gum trouble. Hormone levels surge and gums may become tender and painful. They may begin to bleed as well. It is wise to seek medical attention if this happens during your pregnancy.

During menopause, hormone levels change again. These changes have also been known to cause gums to bleed. Some women experience a burning sensation in the gums or sensitivity. Some notice that their gums change color.

Oral Cancer

Your dentist can identify oral cancer when you come for your annual checkup. Oral cancers can start on any soft tissue in the mouth, including the gums. When you have a sore in your mouth or on your gums that will not heal, you should seek the care of a dentist. The lesion may not be painful to begin with, and if it does not heal within two weeks, you should have it examined.

Irritated gums are often the result of poor oral hygiene and left untreated, serious complications can develop, causing pain and tooth loss. Do not ignore sores in your mouth and on your gums. Contact Sacramento Emergency Dentist and make an appointment when you feel the discomfort or pain of irritated gums.