When experiencing gum sensitivity, many people ignore the issue, writing it off as minor discomfort. However, pain in the gums can be a sign of more serious conditions that require the intervention of a dentist. It's important for your long-term oral health to talk to your dental provider about any gum symptoms you experience. Here's a closer look at what causes gums to be overly sensitive and what you can do about it.

What Causes Gum Sensitivity?

Sensitive gums are characterized by soreness, redness, bleeding, and throbbing. Pain while brushing, flossing, and chewing is also common. The primary culprit is gum disease. 

Gingivitis occurs when bacteria form a sticky film known as plaque on tooth enamel, leading to inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue. If left untreated, the condition will turn into periodontitis, in which gum tissue pulls away from teeth, creating pockets that become infected by bacteria.

Other causes of sensitive gums can include:

• Aggressive brushing and flossing
• Canker sores, ulcers, and other oral infections
• Irritation from braces, dentures, or other dental appliances
• Vitamin C or Vitamin K deficiency
• Smoking
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation
• Stress

What Are the Treatment Options?

Home treatment for sensitivity starts with good oral hygiene to ward off gum disease. A soft-bristled toothbrush is best to gently brush twice a day. Daily flossing is also essential to prevent gingivitis from forming or advancing to periodontal disease. You can also rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and apply an over-the-counter oral anesthetic gel to soothe pain.

Once plaque hardens into tartar, only a dental professional can remove it, which is why biannual cleaning appointments are crucial. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve your dental and overall health. A well-balanced diet is highly recommended, including plenty of fruits and vegetables high in Vitamins C and K, such as oranges, spinach, and broccoli. 

To treat existing gum disease, dentists can provide a deep cleaning to remove tartar from under the gumline and encourage gum pockets to shrink. They can also adjust dental appliances or prescribe antibiotics for oral infections. If gums remain sore and continue to bleed, your dentist may recommend surgical treatment, such as a gum graft to replace lost tissue.

For sore gums and other dental issues, trust Larry G. Hubbard, DDS, in Statesboro, GA. The dentist offers a range of services and expertise to give you a smile you'll be proud to show off. The office provides regular checkups and cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, crowns, veneers, and more. The friendly, trained staff is dedicated to ensuring a comfortable experience for every patient. Call (912) 764-9891 to make an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.