Gum Pain

Jaime R. Herndon, MS, MPH
·8 min read

Sore gums are never fun. They can be mildly tender or swollen, red, and bleeding. A variety of factors can cause gum pain, but once you figure out the cause, the discomfort is almost always treatable.

This article will discuss what causes gum pain and what can be done to relieve it.

<p>Sorapop/Getty Images</p>

Sorapop/Getty Images

Symptoms of Gum Pain

Gum pain may be accompanied by other symptoms, depending on the cause. These include:

  • A sore on the gums

  • Swollen gums

  • Red gums

  • Bleeding gums

  • Bad breath

  • Gums have pulled away from the teeth

  • Loose teeth

  • Sensitive teeth

Causes of Gum Pain

Gum pain can be caused by a number of issues. It’s important to know the underlying cause because then it can be appropriately treated.

Common causes of gum pain include:

More than half of the population gets canker sores. These are painful sores that affect soft parts of the mouth, including the gums. They usually heal on their own in about a week. It’s not known what causes them, but they could be the result of an immune reaction in which white blood cells attack cells in the mouth.

Sometimes canker sores are associated with conditions like Crohn’s disease or nutritional deficits, and they may be triggered by certain foods or ingredients in toothpaste.

Sore gums could be a sign that you have gum disease. The infection usually is caused by poor brushing and flossing habits; other causes include diabetes, certain medications that reduce saliva, and genetics.

A periodontist who specializes in treating gums and gum disease may need to do a deep clean of your mouth and gums. Severe gum disease may require surgery.

If you brush or floss your teeth too forcefully, you can irritate your gums; over time, this can lead to pain and sensitivity. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and take your time with flossing, making sure to be gentle while still being thorough. Your dentist can show you the proper technique.

Sometimes food allergies can cause sore gums. For example, people with pollen fruit syndrome (PFS), also called oral allergy syndrome (OAS), may notice their gums, mouths, tongues, and throats feel itchy and swollen after eating certain fruits and vegetables, including apples. Over time, swollen gums can become sore and tender. Treatment for PFS includes over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines.

Your body's fluctuating hormone levels can affect your gums. During puberty in people with ovaries, an increase in hormones like progesterone can boost blood flow to the gums, leading to sensitivity and tenderness. The hormonal changes and overall increased blood flow that happen during pregnancy can make people more likely to develop painful gum disease.

Menopausal people (those who have not had a menstrual period for 12 straight months) may also notice pain in their gums due to hormones. Talk to your healthcare provider about treatment options if you suspect your hormones may be causing your gum pain.

A cracked or diseased tooth that develops a bacterial infection in the root is known as an abscessed tooth. It can cause gum pain, swelling, fever, and other symptoms. Treatment may include antibiotics, drainage and cleaning of the area, and/or a root canal.

What Medications Can Cause Gum Pain?

Medications that can cause gum overgrowth, gum disease, and gum pain include:

People who smoke or use smokeless tobacco products such as dip are twice as likely to have gum disease than nontobacco users. Tobacco weakens your immune system, which makes it harder to fight off germs and infections, including gum infections. It can also take longer for your gums to heal, and gum disease treatments may not work as well.

Like tobacco, people who smoke marijuana/cannabis have been shown to be at higher risk of developing gum disease.

How to Treat Gum Pain

Sometimes gum pain can be treated at home, even temporarily while waiting for dental treatment. Always check with a dentist first to make sure it's safe for you.

Gargling Saltwater

A saltwater rinse is an easy and effective way to ease dental pain. It can even help keep bacteria and plaque in check, which could lower your risk of gum disease.

Over-the-Counter Pain Medicine

OTC pain medication can be effective for gum pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen) and Aleve (naproxen) are good choices because they interfere with an enzyme that causes red and swollen gums.

For moderate to severe pain, combining an NSAID and Tylenol (acetaminophen) has been found to be just as effective as taking medications containing opioids. Topical treatments like numbing gels can be applied directly to your gums.

Cold Compresses

A cold compress will help relieve gum pain. Never apply a compress directly to your gums; place it on your face instead.

Clove Oil

Clove oil can soothe gum pain and may also help prevent gum disease. It contains a compound called eugenol that's a natural anesthetic and also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a few drops of oil to a cotton ball and gently wipe over painful areas of your gums. Use clove oil sparingly—too much can actually irritate your gums and cause other problems—and don't use it on children.

Complications and Risk Factors Associated With Gum Pain

People who smoke or use smokeless tobacco products such as dip are twice as likely to have gum disease than nontobacco users. Tobacco weakens your immune system, which makes it harder to fight off germs and infections, including gum infections. It can also take longer for your gums to heal, and gum disease treatments may not work as well.

Other people more at risk for gum disease include people with diabetes or AIDS, and people who are starting to menstruate at puberty, are pregnant, or are entering menopause.

Poor oral hygiene can also lead to sore gums. The best way to prevent gum pain is to keep your mouth healthy. This includes:

  • Brushing thoroughly twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste

  • Cleaning between the teeth (such as flossing) daily

  • Seeing a dentist every six months for a cleaning

  • Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption

Complications of gum disease include loose teeth, gum abscesses, and losing teeth. The American Academy of Periodontolgy notes that gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease, pneumonia, some forms of cancer, and progression of Alzheimer's disease.

Are There Tests to Diagnose the Cause of Gum Pain?

A dentist is the healthcare provider usually consulted for gum pain. They will take your history and report of symptoms. Be sure to tell them of any medications you are taking and whether you use tobacco or tobacco products.

A dentist can examine your gums and teeth to assess their health. As part of this exam, they will use a tiny ruler to measure the depth of pockets around the teeth. Deeper pockets indicate gum disease.

They may also take an X-ray to look for problems with the teeth, such as a cracked tooth or abscess.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

If you have gum pain, bleeding gums, swollen gums, or feel discomfort when eating, a dentist can give you a thorough evaluation to check for any underlying causes. Let your dentist know about any medications you're taking or chronic health conditions you may have, such as diabetes, because these factors can affect oral health.

A dentist may refer you to a periodontist, which is an expert in gum disease. A periodontist can perform more specialized procedures to treat gum disease.

Summary

Gum pain can arise from a variety of conditions. It’s important to know the underlying cause so that it can be accurately treated. Home remedies like OTC medication and salt water rinses can provide relief while waiting for treatment, but check with your dentist first.

Gum pain may not start off severe, but if it’s ignored, it can cause significant problems with your mouth and teeth. Early treatment is key, so if you notice any discomfort, call your dentist immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a vitamin deficiency cause gum pain?

Although more research is needed, there's some evidence that deficiencies in vitamins B, C, and D could cause dental problems like swollen and tender gums. If you are concerned about possible vitamin deficiencies, talk with a healthcare provider about testing, diet modifications, and supplementation.

How long does gum pain last?

The duration of gum pain varies and depends on the underlying cause and what treatments, if any, are used. Sometimes OTC and home remedies can provide relief, but this is usually temporary until the underlying cause is addressed.

How do I relieve gum pain after a dental cleaning?

It's common for gums to be sore after a dental cleaning, especially if you had a lot of plaque buildup. Try eating softer foods and gargling with saltwater several times a day, which can help ease pain and speed up the healing process. Your dentist may prescribe a mouth rinse, or they may suggest you take an OTC medicine like Advil or Tylenol.