Causes of sore teeth and gums

Sore teeth and gums can come from tooth decay, gum inflammation, an abscess, cracked enamel, grinding, sensitivity, trauma, or food trapped between teeth.

Tooth pain can reflect irritation of dentin or inflammation of the pulp, while gum soreness commonly reflects plaque-related inflammation, trauma, or an ulcer. Referred pain and clenching can make more than one tooth feel sore.

Rinse gently, clean between teeth, use a soft brush, avoid chewing on the painful side, and note whether cold, heat, biting, or spontaneous pain triggers symptoms. Do not place aspirin or caustic chemicals on the gum.

Arrange dental care when soreness lasts, returns, worsens, or comes with swelling, bad taste, fever, bleeding, or a loose tooth. Facial swelling or difficulty swallowing or breathing needs urgent care.

Ask which tooth or tissue is the source, whether imaging or a vitality test is needed, and whether decay, gum disease, a crack, grinding, or an abscess explains the pattern.