Gum pain is one of the most common problems in oral health and usually manifests itself with discomfort felt around the teeth. This pain can range from mild sensitivity to unbearable pain. The most common causes of gum pain include infections, inflammation, gum recession and incorrect oral hygiene practices. Plaque accumulation in particular can cause irritation and inflammation in the gum tissue, causing pain in this area over time.
Poor oral care habits such as incorrect or inadequate tooth brushing and neglecting to use dental floss can also negatively affect gum health. Gum pain does not remain only a local discomfort; if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, osteoporosis and even systemic problems such as heart disease. Therefore, it is extremely important to protect gum health and intervene in time when pain is felt.
Why Do Gums Hurt
Gum pain has many common causes and is usually directly related to oral health. One of the most common causes is gum inflammation, gingivitis. Gingivitis causes swelling, redness and bleeding of the gums; it usually occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene and can develop into a more serious gum disease called periodontitis if left untreated. Periodontitis destroys the supporting tissues of the teeth, can lead to tooth loss and causes the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth, causing severe pain.
Gum recession occurs when the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots of the teeth, causing sensitivity and pain in the teeth. Hard brushing, gum disease and aging are the most common contributing factors. In addition, improper tooth brushing techniques can cause irritation and gum recession when too much pressure is applied to the gums. Injuries to the gums, such as blows to the gums, accidentally biting the cheeks or sharp edges of the teeth, can also cause sensitivity and pain in the gums.
Tartar is formed by the hardening of plaque over time and causes inflammation and pain by putting pressure on the gum line; if not cleaned, it paves the way for serious gum diseases. In addition, some viral and bacterial infections can also cause gum pain. For example, the herpes virus can cause sores in the mouth and cause pain in the gums.
Clenching teeth (bruksizm) is the habit of clenching teeth during the night or under stress, and this creates pain by causing pressure on the gums, while also causing wear and tear on the teeth and gum recession. Finally, incorrectly made dentures or braces can also cause pain in the gums; the incompatibility of dentures or braces can irritate the gums, and such pain can be prevented by regular checks of these devices.
Symptoms of Gum Pain
Gum pain is a condition that usually manifests itself with various symptoms, and these symptoms give early signals that there is a problem with gum health. One of the first symptoms noticed is swelling and redness in the gums. This indicates inflammation in the gum tissue and is usually a sign of infection. At the same time, gum bleeding can often be seen during brushing or flossing.
When the gums are healthy, they do not bleed during such procedures; therefore, bleeding may be a sign of underlying gum disease. Sensitivity and pain in the gums are also common symptoms; these pains can become more pronounced, especially when eating or exposed to hot and cold foods and drinks.
This discomfort can also be accompanied by bad breath, because gum diseases are usually caused by bacterial infections, and these bacteria cause bad odors. In more advanced stages, gum recession may occur; As the gums recede, the roots of the teeth are exposed, which can cause more sensitivity and pain in the teeth.
In addition, a feeling of looseness or wobbling in the teeth can be a sign of poor gum health. As gum disease progresses, the supporting tissues of the teeth become damaged, making it difficult for the teeth to remain fixed in place.
Medical Treatment Methods for Gum Pain
The treatment of gum pain varies depending on the cause of the pain. Dentists use various treatment methods to eliminate gum problems. Here are some medical methods used to treat gum pain:
- Stone Cleaning (Scaling): If the cause of gum pain is plaque and tartar accumulation, the dentist removes these accumulations by performing professional teeth cleaning. Scaling reduces gum inflammation and ensures healthy healing of the gums.
- Antibiotic Treatment: When pain occurs due to gum infections, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics relieve gum pain by controlling bacterial infections.
- Curettage: Curettage is a procedure performed to clean deep plaque and tartar under the gums. This procedure stops the progression of gum disease and restores gum health.
- Gum Surgery: In advanced gum disease, gum surgery may be necessary. These surgeries are performed to repair the gums and bone tissue. Regular care is essential to maintain gum health after surgery.
- Denture or Brace Adjustments: If your gum pain is caused by dentures or braces, your dentist can ensure that these devices are adjusted appropriately.
Natural Pain Relief Methods
There are also some natural solutions that can be applied at home to relieve gum pain and soothe the gums. These methods can temporarily relieve the pain, but for a permanent solution, it is essential to see a dentist. Here are some natural solutions for gum pain:
- Gargle with Salt Water: Salt water is an effective method for relieving gum inflammation and pain. You can gargle several times a day by adding a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water.
- Gargle with Sage: Sage is a natural herb with anti-inflammatory properties and has a soothing effect on the gums. You can gargle by brewing sage tea and letting it cool.
- Clove Oil: Clove oil is a natural product with pain-relieving properties. You can apply a few drops of clove oil to a cotton ball and apply it to the sore gums.
- Ice Application: If there is swelling and pain in the gums, you can relieve the pain by applying a cold compress. Applying ice wrapped in a towel directly to the affected area reduces swelling and provides temporary relief by numbing the nerves.
- Coconut Oil Rinse: Coconut oil is a natural antibacterial agent that helps kill bacteria in the mouth. Swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for a few minutes can help relieve gingivitis.
How to Protect Your Gum Health?
It is very important to take care of your oral hygiene to protect your gum health and prevent gum pain. First of all, regular brushing and flossing is one of the most effective ways to protect your gum health. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing can help prevent plaque buildup, which can help prevent gingivitis and other gum diseases.
Regular dental check-ups also play a critical role; by having your teeth and gums checked regularly, you can detect and treat potential problems early. A healthy diet is also an important part of maintaining oral health. You can prevent gum damage by avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks in particular.
In addition, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption is also extremely important for gum health. These harmful habits can lead to inflammation and receding gums, so quitting them will be an effective step to protect your gum health.
