How to help your gums stop hurting
Painful gums need gentle plaque control and an examination to identify inflammation, trauma, an ulcer, or infection.
The short answer
Painful gums need gentle plaque control and an examination to identify inflammation, trauma, periodontal disease, an ulcer, or infection.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Gum pain can arise in the gingiva around a tooth, the mucosa inside the cheek, or the tissues over an erupting tooth. Redness and bleeding often reflect inflammation, while a sore, burn, sharp edge, decay, or abscess can create a more focused painful area.
What can you do next?
Clean gently with a soft brush and an appropriately sized interdental aid, avoid tobacco and irritating foods, and rinse with water after meals. Do not place caustic substances on the gum. A dentist may remove deposits, smooth an irritant, treat decay, manage an ulcer, or address periodontal infection.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange prompt care for bleeding without brushing, pus, a persistent ulcer, fever, swelling, loose teeth, or pain that is worsening. Emergency assessment is needed when swelling affects swallowing or breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which tissue is painful and what was seen on examination. Ask whether you need periodontal measurements, radiographs, professional cleaning, a restoration, or treatment for an ulcer or infection.