When it comes to oral health, most people tend to focus more on their teeth, often neglecting their gums. However, sensitive gums can make your daily routine a painful experience and can be a symptom of a significant problem. One way to ensure people take as good care of their gums as they do their teeth is to highlight what improper gum care could lead to. This post aims to do just that by talking about gum sensitivity, mentioning some of the general dental services Splendid Dental Woodlands offers to cater to every aspect of your oral health.
What Is Gum Sensitivity?
Gum sensitivity is a term that is used to refer to different forms of irritation that originate from the gums. This irritation could include the gums’ tenderness and swelling and sometimes cause the gums to emit bad breath and bleed easily. Sensitive gums are often accompanied by redness and pain that either gradually subsides or lingers for long periods.
There is a difference between tooth and gum sensitivity. However, depending on where you feel pain, it can be challenging to determine which is which. Tooth sensitivity is often caused by a loose filling, cavities, or worn down enamel. On the other hand, sensitive gums have a wider range of causes.
What Causes Gum Sensitivity?
A leading cause of gum sensitivity is poor oral hygiene. Over time, plaque builds up along the gum line, causing sensitivity. If left unattended, it could result in gum disease. Additionally, other factors such as flossing or brushing too hard can make your gums sore and sensitive. Newly placed dental braces or dentures can also cause sensitivity though this is often temporary, with the soreness fading as your mouth gradually adjusts. Other causes of sensitive gums are such as:
- Smoking
- Vitamin C deficiency
- Diabetes
- Oral infections like mouth ulcers or canker sores
- Hormonal changes
- Stress
How Can I Treat Sensitive Gums?
The treatment method you opt for is determined by the underlying cause of your gum sensitivity. Your dentist will suggest various home remedies or solutions offered by professionals. Home remedies involve treatment options you could easily do on your own and in your home’s comfort.
These options include using an antiseptic mouthwash or over-the-counter medications such as oral-numbing creams or over-the-counter pain relievers. Adapting a different lifestyle can also be beneficial. You could consider improving dental hygiene, drinking more water, increasing your vitamin C intake, practicing stress management, or even quitting smoking.
Seeking Professional Treatment for Sensitive Gums
If the sensitivity persists or worsens even after attempting several home treatments, it could point to a more severe cause, and it is best to see a dentist as soon as possible. Several general dental services could prove more effective. If your sensitivity is caused by early gum disease, a deep, professional dental cleaning will remove tartar and plaque buildup, eventually reversing sensitivity.
Gum sensitivity can sometimes be a result of a blood disorder or an autoimmune disease. A blood test can be ordered to look for the presence of cancerous cells or widespread inflammation. Before your dentist suggests a treatment solution, additional testing can reveal any possible medical condition. Once the underlying cause is identified, your dentist will prescribe certain medications to resolve the inflammation. These medications could include Triamcinolone, Anbesol, Xylocaine, Chloraseptic, or Orajel.
Find The Help You Need with Splendid Dental Woodlands
Sensitive gums are treatable, but it is best to identify the root of the problem and resolve it as soon as possible. At Splendid Dental Woodlands, we offer a wide range of general dentistry services to improve your oral health. These services are such as:
- Tooth extractions
- Root canal treatment
- Dental fillings
- Oral exams
- Teeth cleaning
Our team consists of dental professionals dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care for your sensitive gums. Contact Splendid Dental Woodlands at 713-587-9996 to schedule a visit today.