Did you know that at least 46% of adults in the US have signs of gum disease? Your gums have an important job of supporting and protecting your teeth, yet they’re often ignored.
While gum disease is often the cause of pain in the gums, there can be other reasons your gums are not feeling as healthy as they should be.
Keep reading to learn about the five causes of gum pain and what you can do to get smiling again!
Table of Contents
1. Gum Disease
Gum disease is one of the most common causes of gum pain. Gum disease, otherwise known as periodontal disease, results from not brushing and flossing enough.
Bacteria build up under the gums and cause little pockets of infection. Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding, inflamed gums, and loose teeth.
The best way to prevent gum disease is to brush and floss twice daily. If you have gum pain, make sure you find a dentist like dental specialist services and schedule a check-up.
2. Changes in Hormones
If you’re a woman, it’s important to be aware of how hormonal changes can affect your gums. Puberty often causes an increase in blood flow to the gums resulting in sensitivity and swelling.
The hormones from pregnancy and menstruation can cause bleeding and swollen gums. When you start to go through menopause, your gums become dry, which results in burning and bleeding.
3. Vitamin Deficiencies
It’s important to remember if you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, you need enough vitamins and minerals. If you have a deficiency in vitamin B and vitamin C, it can lead to red, sore, and swollen gums.
Make sure you eat a balanced diet and talk to your dentist if a diet change doesn’t do the trick.
4. Canker Sores
Canker sores are painful sores that can occur anywhere in your mouth, but they can also appear on your gums too. These sores usually appear as red blotches and sometimes have a white coating.
They can be caused by bacteria or autoimmune diseases and usually resolve on their own. If you have a canker sore that lasts more than a week, you should have it checked by your dentist.
5. Tobacco Products
Smoking cigarettes or cigars can damage your gums and cause them to become red and inflamed. You also put yourself at higher risk for developing gum disease when you smoke.
Chewing tobacco causes the most harm, often resulting in sores forming on your gums. Chewing tobacco products can also lead to oral cancer, so it’s best to stop using them altogether.
Pain in the Gums
Now that you know what causes gum pain, you can better take care of your dental health. If you have pain in the gums, don’t wait to see your dentist.
Remember, your dental health is key to your overall health and well-being.
Did we leave you wanting to learn more? Check out our blog to learn more health, lifestyle, and travel tips that will improve your life today! Did we leave you wanting to learn more? Check out our blog to learn more health, lifestyle, and travel tips that will improve your life today!
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