Initially, the main concern for many when it comes to sensitive gums is the pain they feel when eating or brushing. And while this is something to worry about, the bigger concern should be that there is a significant oral health issue that could lead to bigger problems down the road.
Common causes of gum sensitivity include:
- Brushing or flossing too vigorously
- Using a frayed toothbrush
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Stress
- Chronic health issues, such as diabetes
Regardless of the cause of the gum sensitivity, it’s important to take steps to manage the pain and prevent future issues. Luckily, there are some things you can do at home to help manage or alleviate gum pain.
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Brush and floss correctly
- Drink more water
- Eat foods dense in vitamins and minerals
- Avoid tobacco products
- Manage stress
- Use over the counter medications when necessary
But for some, at-home remedies are not enough. If that’s the case, then there are things your dentist can do to help like regular dental cleanings, adjustments to any oral appliances you may have, and a thorough evaluation to determine if any underlying issues are causing the sensitivity.
While often treatable and reversible, gum sensitivity can be a serious issue. If the pain persists for more than a few days or continues to worsen after trying home remedies, give Jackson Dental a call at 573-243-5200 to schedule an appointment.