What do you do when your gums hurt

Pain in the gingiva may be caused by plaque-induced gingivitis, food trapped between teeth, a cut or burn, a loose restoration, or inflammation around a partially erupted wisdom tooth. Pain that seems to come from the gum can also arise from the pulp or root of a nearby tooth.

Use a soft brush with fluoride toothpaste and clean gently along the gumline and between teeth with floss or an interdental brush. Avoid tobacco, very hot foods, and objects that rub the area; do not place aspirin or concentrated chemicals on the gum. A dentist may remove calculus, repair a filling, drain an abscess, or treat the involved tooth after examination and imaging.

Seek prompt care for facial swelling, pus, fever, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, or pain that is severe or worsening. Arrange an appointment when bleeding, tenderness, recession, or a sore area persists despite gentle cleaning, because the cause may need periodontal or tooth treatment.

Ask which tooth or gum area is causing the pain, whether plaque, calculus, decay, a cracked tooth, or an erupting wisdom tooth is involved, and whether an X-ray is needed. Ask which treatment will address the cause and how to clean the area while it heals.