3 Reasons Your Gums Might Hurt

Sore gums can be concerning, especially if they seem to come out of nowhere. Understanding the cause of the pain can go a long way to help you take action.

Common Reasons for Gum Pain

Gum pain in Lighthouse Point, FL can sometimes be easily explained by specific issues, like physical trauma, canker sores, or a piece of food wedged in the gum. In other cases, though, you may not know where the pain stems from or why you only feel in certain parts of your mouth.

Your gum pain might be linked to:

  • Over-aggressive brushing: If your toothbrush is hard-bristled or you’re brushing too hard, it can damage or erode your tissues and eventually cause discomfort or even pain.
  • Periodontal disease: Plaque can migrate from the teeth under the gums. While mild inflammation is unlikely to hurt, more advanced infections can damage sensitive gum tissue.
  • Hormones: Anything from menopause to puberty can make your gums more prone to irritation. Not only does this alter the blood flow, it also makes your gums more susceptible to bacteria.

Gum pain can be accompanied by anything from bleeding to swelling. If the pain is extremely severe, you may need an emergency professional to rule out severe infections.

Can a Dentist in Lighthouse Point, FL Help?

Certain types of gum pain, like burns from hot foods, may only need a few days to simmer down and resolve on their own. Other causes, like a poorly fit crown or retainer, may need a dentist in Lighthouse Point, FL to correct the issue.

You can also see a periodontist in Lighthouse Point, FL. At Florida Smiles Dental, our periodontal team specialize in gum pain and can recommend long-term treatments to ensure that your tissues stay healthy as you age.