Sore Gums: Causes, Treatments and Relief for Sensitive Gums

Many people have experienced sore gums. You're brushing or flossing and notice a painful sensation in your gums. Sometimes your sore gums may even start bleeding while you're brushing or flossing. Since the pain from sore gums isn’t usually very severe and is such a common problem, many people don’t pay much attention to sore gums. But sore gums could be an early sign of gum disease. Fortunately, addressing sore gums isn’t usually very difficult, especially if you catch it during the early stages of gum disease

Brushing too hard, improper flossing techniques, infection, or gum disease can cause sore and sensitive gums. Other causes unrelated to oral hygiene could include a Vitamin K deficiency, hormonal changes during pregnancy, leukemia or blood disorders. If you notice sore or sensitive gums, always consult your dentist or doctor. Sore gums or gums that are swollen or bleeding are most often linked to gum disease. There are two stages of gum disease, both of which may cause sore gums.

• Gingivitis: This is the early and mildest form of gum disease; sore gums are often one of the first signs that you may be suffering from gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more serious gum disease.
• Periodontitis:Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease with more serious implications, such as possible tooth loss and other health problems. Other causes of sore and sensitive gums:
• Diet: A healthy and well-balanced diet can help prevent sore gums and gum disease. A diet that includes plenty of Vitamin C and calcium may minimize your risk for gum problems.
• Tobacco Use: Tobacco use has been associated with gum disease and increases your risk for sore gums.
• Stress: Stress raises the levels of cortisol in your body, which increases the likelihood of inflammation throughout the body. Try to reduce stress if you can.
• Lack of Oral Hygiene: Maintaining a diligent oral hygiene routine is the best way to keep your teeth healthy and help prevent sore gums.

Many Canadians (up to 50 percent) have gingivitis, a symptom of which can be sore or sensitive gums. Additionally, 80% of sensitivity starts at the gum line, making it that much more important to pay special attention to your gums. Since many causes of sensitive gums are tied to oral hygiene, the tips below are the best place to start:

• Brush at least twice a day with a sensitivity toothpaste, the Crest Gum and Sensitivity productline up offers a variety options to better meet your needs
• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Floss at least once per day
• See your dentist regularly
• Eat a well-balanced diet

Gum care and sensitivity relief toothpastes are specifically made to help protect against sensitivity pain. Crest Gum and Sensitivity is clinically proven to give you healthier gums by neutralizing harmful plaque bacteria around the gum line to treat sensitivity at the source. It can help you treat sore or bleeding gums, and can help prevent further gum issues. The gum line is crucial for taking care of your mouth, as millions of bacteria can build up along that area. Also, try swishing with Crest Gum Care Mouthwash for additional support in maintaining healthier gums. Sources:

1. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003062.htm