While the teeth are usually the most noticeable part of the smile, the gums serve the crucial role of providing them with the circulation, nutrition, and structural support they need to stay healthy and beautiful. Unfortunately, the gums can be compromised by factors like injury and infection, which can lead to serious long-term consequences like tooth loss and possibly dangerous secondary infections like pneumonia and sepsis. Here’s a quick overview of why your gums may be sore and inflamed and what you can do about it.
Why Are My Gums Sore and Inflamed?
Gum disease starts out almost imperceptibly small in the form of gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums that often includes redness, swelling, bleeding, and tenderness. While gingivitis may seem nearly harmless at first, it will eventually progress to the advanced stage called periodontitis if it is untreated. Periodontitis leads to permanent damage such as tooth loss and jawbone erosion, and it may even cause potentially life-threatening secondary infections.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is typically caused by poor oral hygiene. Neglecting to brush and floss sufficiently every day will lead to unsightly and foul-smelling accumulations of plaque, food debris, and sugary residues, which creates the ideal environment for bacteria to multiply rapidly and infect your oral tissues. These germs and the acid they excrete as a metabolic byproduct can irritate your gum tissue and dental enamel and eventually cause conditions like gum disease and tooth decay.
However, certain medical conditions such as pregnancy and diabetes can make people more likely to develop gum disease, and some people are more susceptible to the problem because of genetic conditions. It’s best for these individuals to discuss these concerns with their dentists to determine the best ways to help their gums stay healthy.
How Can I Avoid Gum Disease?
Fortunately, excellent oral hygiene habits can drastically reduce the likelihood of developing gum disease. To keep your teeth and gums in excellent health, take care to do the following every day:
- Brush: Gently treating your teeth, gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste will eliminate most of the plaque and food residue in your mouth.
- Floss: Using traditional floss, floss picks, or water flossers will cleanse unpleasant accumulations from between your teeth where a brush cannot reach.
- Antibacterial mouthwash: This concoction can kill massive numbers of harmful oral bacteria and leave your mouth minty fresh. Look for the ADA’s seal of approval on the label.
While gingivitis can usually be reversed with improved oral hygiene habits, the symptoms of periodontitis require regular therapy from a dentist to be managed. Seeing your oral health professional regularly for routine exams and cleanings will allow them to monitor your teeth and gums and address problems in their early stages.
About the Author
Dr. Vincenzo Artino earned his dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has completed countless hours of continuing education coursework. He has received advanced training in orthodontics, dental implants, and TMJ treatments. His office in Lakewood offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as gum disease treatments. If you are concerned about gum disease, contact his office online or dial (303) 238-2800.