When you have a toothache, you probably head right for the dentist. But what do you do when you have problems with your gums?
Why Do My Gums Hurt When I Brush My Teeth?
There are many reasons why your gums might hurt. But a lot of gum problems don’t cause pain right away. The possible reasons range from very minor to very serious.
When families gear up to indulge in their favorite foods during the holiday season, tradition often puts numerous acidic foods on the dinner table. If they’re on yours, do you know what they can do to your teeth? There are numerous types of foods that fall into this category.
Avoid Harmful Foods to Your Teeth
Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes and similarly common fruit items are as acidic as they are healthy, which is why it’s important to consume them with water to ensure they don’t harm your enamel. However, these products aren’t the only foods out there known for their low pH level. Others include:
- Pickles
- Cranberries
- Tomato products (pasta sauce, ketchup, salsa, hot sauce)
- Coffee
- Alcohol (wine)
Tooth Decay and Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. Plaque buildup irritates gum tissue, making gums swollen and tender. Bleeding gums after brushing is a sign of gingivitis. Maintain proper oral hygiene and see your dentist if you notice these symptoms. As gum disease progresses, it can become more challenging to treat.
Choosing Right Toothbrush
If you notice pain in your gum and discomfort after brushing with a hard-bristled brush, then it may be time to get a new toothbrush. Most dentists recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush to keep teeth clean. Good brushing technique with a soft brush can help remove plaque and fight tooth decay and some form of gum disease without irritating your gums and teeth. Brush for two minutes using short, gentle strokes. Clean all the surfaces of your teeth, including the outside, inside, and chewing surface of those hard-to-reach back teeth.
As you can see, tooth pain after brushing may be a temporary inconvenience after a professional dental treatment, or it may be a sign of a more serious dental health condition. Maintain good oral hygiene habits with a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you notice pain, discomfort, or bleeding gums, then be sure to see your dentist.
Brushing Incorrectly
As dental professionals, we encourage brushing and flossing twice a day, but to reap the benefits of good oral hygiene it needs to be done correctly. This means using a toothbrush with soft, nylon bristles and brushing gently with circular motions, instead of back-and-forth. Also over brushing can have side effects like Receding Gums and Tooth Abrasion.
To keep your gums healthy and prevent your gum hurts and following gum disease, the American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day.
Your Gum Hurts?
Do You Have Braces, Retainers, Mouth Guardsor Dentures?
One of the few very visible sources of gum pain and soreness could be braces, retainers, dentures or mouth guards. The constant tugging, pulling and rubbing against the gums can cause them to become sore and painful over time. This can affect how your gums feel when you brush your teeth.
- Braces
If your braces are causing pain or discomfort, see your orthodontist to discuss your options.
- Retainers
In the case that your retainer is causing the sensitivity, see your orthodontist or dentists about getting fitted for a new one.
- Mouth guards
If your mouth guard is causing irritation, see your dentist about getting a custom-made one that is fitted specifically to your mouth.
- Dentures
When your dentures are causing gum soreness, talk to your dentist to discuss your options.
Visit Your Dentist at Least Twice a Year
To best maintain your dental health, you should visit your Arlington Heights Dentist at least every 6 months. We recommend that you brush twice a day, floss once a day, and visit us twice a year. If you require any additional dental care, we will create a treatment plan that is best for you.
