“My gums hurt. “My gums bleed.” Have you ever felt that way? Do your gums feel sore, puffy, and tender? Do they tend to bleed easily when you brush your teeth? Certainly, you should visit Dr. Makadia and our Long Island dental team so we can diagnose the problem and recommend your next steps. In the meantime, you might be curious about the reason for your discomfort. What causes sore and inflamed gums? There are several possibilities:
Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissue. In its earliest stage, known as gingivitis, it is characterized by swollen, sore, and tender gums that bleed easily during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is very common, but the good news is that it is also treatable. If it is in its early stage, it can be reversed via conservative treatments, such as a deep dental cleaning and a few adjustments to your at-home oral hygiene routine. Advanced gum disease can be treated with advanced laser treatment.
Other Types of Infections
Beyond gum disease, other types of oral infections may cause swelling in the gums. For example, bacteria can invade a tooth, but the infection can spread into the nearby gum tissue. In some cases, a pimple-like bump known as an abscess forms. An abscess can be very painful and is a good reason to request an emergency dental appointment.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes may increase your risk of gum disease. For example, pregnant women have a higher risk of gingivitis due to their shifting hormonal state. If you are expecting a baby, regular dental care is important for protecting your smile and reducing your risk of the complications associated with gum disease, such as a low birth weight.
Injury and Irritation
Sometimes, food might get stuck along your gumline. This can cause some swelling and soreness. If you suspect that is the problem, you might be able to remove the debris by flossing.
Another possible cause of gum irritation is a poorly fitting dental appliance. For example, if it has been too long since you got your dentures relined (adjusted), they might be rubbing against your gums in a way that causes soreness.
Medications
Some medications may increase your gums’ inflammatory response to plaque and bacteria. If you believe one of your prescriptions is to blame, you may need to speak with your primary care provider.
There are several possible reasons for sore and inflamed gums! Dr. Makadia and our team can help you diagnose and understand the problem and take steps toward relief.
Get in Touch with Us
With more than 30 years of experience in the field of dentistry, Dr. Makadia has all the skills and knowledge necessary to diagnose and treat many causes of gum inflammation. If you have concerns about your gum health or would like to learn more about our practice, contact Sunrise Dental Service in Bohemia at 631-567-5566.