Sensitive Gums
Sensitive gums are a common problem that can make everyday activities, such as brushing your teeth or eating cold foods, uncomfortable or even painful. The severity of gum sensitivity can range from mild to severe. In some cases, it may only be noticeable when you eat or drink something cold, hot, sweet, or acidic. In other cases, it may be constant and even interfere with your sleep.
Symptoms
The following are some of the most common symptoms of sensitive gums:
- Sharp or sudden pain when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods or drinks
- Discomfort while brushing or flossing
- Receding gum line or longer teeth due to gum recession
- Tingling or a “zapping” sensation in the gums
Causes
There are a number of causes of sensitive gum, including:
- Gum disease: Gum disease is the most common cause of sensitive gums. It is a chronic infection that causes inflammation and damage to the gums. As the gums recede, the roots of the teeth become exposed. This can lead to sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
- Brushing too hard: Brushing your teeth too hard can wear away the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. This can expose the dentin, the softer layer of tissue underneath. Dentin is porous, so it can easily transmit pain from hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush: A hard-bristled toothbrush can also damage the gums and expose the dentin.
Treatment
The best way to treat sensitive gums is to address the underlying cause. If gum disease is the cause, your dentist can recommend treatment options to remove the plaque and tartar buildup and reduce inflammation.
In addition to treating the underlying cause, there are a number of things you can do to relieve the pain and discomfort of sensitive gums:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Brush your teeth gently twice a day for two minutes.
- Floss once a day.
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
- Avoid eating acidic foods and drinks.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Quit smoking.
prevention
The best way to prevent sensitive gums is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing once a day, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
You can also help prevent sensitive gums by avoiding eating acidic foods and drinks, drinking plenty of water, and quitting smoking.
Conclusion
Sensitive gums can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but it is important to remember that it is often treatable. By understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and following effective treatments, you can overcome gum sensitivity and enjoy a more comfortable oral experience.
if you’re experiencing sensitive gums or any discomfort in your oral health, it’s highly recommended to schedule a visit to dentick dental care for consultation
Call us for a Dental Checkup
If you are in the BTM Layout Vicinity, Come in for a consultation, Prevention is better than Cure!
