My gum feels sore

A sore gum can result from plaque inflammation, a local injury, an erupting tooth, or infection, and the cause determines treatment.

Gum soreness is pain or tenderness in the gingiva, the soft tissue around the teeth. One localized area may reflect trapped food, a sharp tooth edge, brushing trauma, or an erupting molar; widespread soreness more often involves gum inflammation.

Use a soft brush, clean gently around the tender area, rinse with lukewarm salt water, and avoid tobacco and irritant foods. Do not place aspirin or concentrated chemicals directly on the gum.

Book dental care if soreness lasts more than a few days, keeps returning, or is accompanied by bleeding, pus, bad taste, fever, swelling, or pain on biting.

Ask which tissue is sore, whether a tooth or filling is irritating it, and whether the examination needs gum measurements or a dental X-ray.