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Have you experienced a painful sensation in your gums while brushing or flossing? This can be due to sore gums, and it may even start bleeding when you brush or floss. Since the pain from sore gums isn't normally very severe, people don't pay much attention to sore gums. But sore gums could be an early sign of gum disease and, if ignored, can lead to severe problems if ignored in the future. Thanks to the developments in modern dentistry, addressing sore gums isn't very difficult now if you start treating them during the early stages of gum disease.

Causes of Sore Gums 

Sore and sensitive gums can be a result of various reasons like brushing too hard, improper flossing techniques, infection, or gum disease.  Vitamin K deficiency, hormonal changes during pregnancy, blood disorders, or leukemia can also lead to sore gums. If you notice sensitive or sore gums, always consult your dentist before the condition gets worse.

Sore or swollen gums or bleeding are mostly linked to gum disease. Gum diseases can be of two stages, both of which may cause sore gums.

• Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the early and mildest form of gum disease and starts with sore gums as its first sign. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious gum diseases.
• Periodontitis:A more advanced form of gum disease, periodontitis can have more serious implications, such as possible tooth loss and other health problems.

Sore and sensitive gums can be a result of other causes as well, that includes:

• Diet:The absence of a healthy and well-balanced diet can lead to sore gums and gum disease. Include plenty of Vitamin C and calcium to minimize the risk for gum problems. Eating acidic food can irritate your mouth and cause sores. 
• Tobacco Use: The use of tobacco or tobacco-related products can increase the risk of gum disease and sore gums.
• Stress:Stress raises the cortisol levels in the body, which increases the probability of inflammation throughout the body. 
• Hormonal changes:For women, changes in hormones can affect the gums at different times of their lives, including puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
• Braces, retainers, mouth guards, dentures: Braces, retainers, dentures, or mouth guards can also cause sore gums. Their constant pulling and rubbing against the gums can cause them to become sore and painful. This can cause pain and irritation to the gums when you brush your teeth.
• Lack of oral hygiene: Maintaining a careful oral hygiene routine is the best way to keep your teeth healthy and prevent sore gums.

Sore Gums Relief and Treatment

It is important to take care of gums and treat sore gums at the earliest as leaving them untreated can lead to severe periodontitis. Besides, 80% of sensitivity starts at the gum line, making it more important to pay special attention to your gums. 

Since sensitive gums are often tied to oral hygiene, these tips are the best place to start:

• Brush at least twice a day with a sensitive toothpaste using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
• Floss at least once per day. Be gentle when you floss.
• Visit your dentist for regular dental checkups and have your mouth checked.
• Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and calcium. 

Gum & Sensitivity Oral Care

Gum care and sensitivity relief toothpaste are made to help protect against sensitivity pain. Such toothpaste is proven to give you healthier gums by neutralizing harmful plaque bacteria around the gum line to treat sensitivity at the source. This will also help to treat sore or bleeding gums and can help prevent further gum issues.

The takeaway

There are various reasons that you might be experiencing sore gums, but many of them can be avoided by leading a healthy lifestyle and following proper oral hygiene habits. If you have persistent pain, swelling, or sores on your gums that stick around longer than a couple of weeks, call us to schedule an appointment with us for a full diagnosis and treatment.