Gum pain and sensitivity can become a point of concern if it becomes permanent and it can affect your daily life. Whether you feel gum pain while eating, brushing or talking, finding relief is a must! There are several different remedies for gum pain from home-made solutions to over-the-counter medications. Let's find out which one would be more suitable for your case.
When gum pain strikes at home, having quick and effective solutions is a lifesaver. One of the most recommended ones is saltwater rinse. You can add a teaspoon of salt to a glass of lukewarm water. By swishing it in your mouth, you may reduce the inflammation because salt has antibacterial properties. It is a simple but still effective way to relieve gum pain. Another solution is applying a cold compress to the outside of your mouth near the area of pain. This can help numb the pain and cold restricts blood flow to the affected area. This method is especially beneficial if your pain is a result of injury or trauma.
Tea bags are another solution to get relief from gum pain. Put black or green teabags into the boiling water and then let them cool slightly. You can apply directly to the affected area. This will help you to reduce swelling because tea contains tannins. Also, antioxidants in the tea will promote the healing of the gums. You can also use clove oil, which has been used as a natural remedy for centuries. This oil contains a compound that acts as a natural anesthetic which helps to relieve the pain. However, use it with caution as overuse of it can lead to irritation. You should first dilute the oil as it is very potent. You can mix it with another oil such as oil or coconut. Using a cotton ball, you can gently apply this mixture to the painful area on your gum.
If your gum pain or gum sensitivity is persistent and you are tired of experiencing it every day, some over-the-counter medications can offer better relief. These medications include:
Medicated Mouthwashes: These mouthwashes typically contain antiseptic ingredients to reduce the bacteria. For instance, if the mouthwash contains hydrogen peroxide, it can reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth, leading to a healthier and happier gum!
Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications might be effective in relieving gum pain if it is due to inflammation. They are especially effective for people experiencing gum disease such as gingivitis. However, keep in mind that you should use these medications as recommended and you should consult a medical professional if you think you would need to use them for a long period.
Desensitizing Toothpaste: These toothpastes contain ingredients that help block the teeth nerves' pathways, therefore reducing the feeling of sensitivity. You can use these toothpastes as part of your dental hygiene routine.
Gum pain and sensitivity can be the result of various reasons. One of the most known causes is gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease. This condition is typically triggered by the accumulation of plaque. Another common cause is brushing too hard or using an inappropriate toothbrush for your tooth type. Over time, this hard brushing can wear down the gum tissue, making the gums sensitive. Dental procedures such as dental cleaning (scaling) or teeth whitening can sometimes cause temporary gum sensitivity. If you have dentures, braces or other dental appliances and they are not fitted correctly, they can also cause gum pain. Also, some nutritional deficiencies especially vitamin C, can cause unhealthy gums making the gums sensitive.
Gum pain can be a result of viral or fungal infection in some cases such as cold sore. These infections can make the gum tender and sensitive. Also, stress and experiencing certain medical conditions such as diabetes can weaken the immune system, contributing to gums' sensitivity. So, there are different reasons for gum sensitivity and different remedies. However, if your gum sensitivity persists, it is crucial to consult a dentist to understand whether there is a serious underlying reason for it.
While people experience gum pain from time to time due to temporary irritations like brushing too hard or eating something that irritates gums, persistent gum pain requires professional consultation. You should worry if your gum pain lasts more than a few days and/or it is accompanied by swelling or bleeding. This can be a sign of gingivitis or periodontitis, which is gum disease. If gum disease is not treated it can lead to more problems such as tooth loss.
Another point to look for if your gum starts to recede, exposing your your teeth roots. Gum recession can cause gum sensitivity as well as make your teeth more vulnerable to decay. If you discover your gums pulling away from your teeth, you should see a dentist immediately. Last but not least, if your gum pain affects your ability to eat, speak or sleep, you should take this as a warning sign and get an appointment with a dentist. Smile Center in Turkey, with its fully-equipped clinic, experienced dentists and all-inclusive dental packages offers various dental treatments from Hollywood smile to all-on-6 dental implants. To get a free consultation and quote, you can always get in contact with our medical experts!
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Healthline. (2023, August 17). Why do my gums hurt? Healthline.
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WebMD. (n.d.). Treating gum pain. WebMD.
