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Toothache is bad enough, and it is a pain that instantly makes us regret our sugary habits. But what about gum pain? This is another common problem, and it can cause us sleepless nights as we lie awake in agony. But what causes it.
Well, there are a number of conditions that can result in gum pain, and these include the following.
#1: Gum disease
Like toothache, gum disease is usually the result of not flossing and brushing your teeth. The neglect of good dental hygiene can cause your gums to swell and bleed, and if not dealt with, it can also result in tooth loss! The most common types of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. The former can be reversed with good oral hygiene habits, but if left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis, which is a more serious condition. A trip to the dentist is obviously key, and if the gum disease has worsened, you may be advised surgical treatment. An alternative is LANAP / Laser Gum Treatment, which is a less painful way to correct the areas in your mouth that have become inflicted by gum disease.
#2: Overly aggressive brushing and flossing
Gum pain isn’t always caused by a medical problem. Sometimes, the way we brush and floss our teeth can be the issue, as if we are overly-aggressive with our oral hygiene habits, we can irritate and even damage our gums, and that can lead to swelling and bleeding. The best solution is to be mindful. When brushing and flossing, be gentle, and slow down a little when you’re cleaning your teeth. A toothbrush with softer bristles might also be in order, as the hard bristles of your current brush might not be doing you any favors.
#3: Mouth ulcers
Also known as canker sores, mouth ulcers are painful sores that can appear on your gums and elsewhere in your mouth. You will usually be able to spot them, as they often have a white coating, and they are red in color. They are usually caused by a bacterial infection, though people who suffer from any type of autoimmune disease are likely to suffer from the problem. Thankfully, they usually disappear within 14 days, and in the meantime, your dentist or pharmacist will be able to recommend a treatment.
#4: An abscessed tooth
An infection near the root of your tooth can cause an abscess. So, not only might you suffer from toothache, but you might also suffer from gum pain, as the abscess can cause the gums to swell and become sore. A dentist can deal with the problem, of course, and this will usually involve root canal treatment. Not the best news, we know, but as with all of the points on this list, let it be a reminder to better care for your teeth in the future.
So, if your gums are hurting at the moment, it might be as a result of one of the conditions we have suggested. There can be other issues though, so rather than putting up with the pain, do visit your dentist for professional advice and treatments.
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