Gum pain can stem from various causes, ranging from minor irritations to more serious conditions. Let's explore some possibilities:
Common Causes of Gum Pain
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Aggressive Brushing: Brushing your teeth too vigorously can irritate your gums, leading to soreness and pain. The reference from February 9th, 2023, explicitly states that sore gums can be a sign of overly aggressive brushing.
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Dental Appliances: Braces or dentures can sometimes rub against your gums, causing irritation and pain. This is another factor mentioned in the February 9th, 2023, reference.
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Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes in hormone levels during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to swollen and painful gums. This is also highlighted in the February 9th, 2023, reference.
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Gum Disease (Gingivitis/Periodontitis): Gum disease is a common cause of gum pain and inflammation. Several references mention this as a potential cause of gum pain. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious dental problems.
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Wisdom Teeth: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to inflammation and pain in the surrounding gums. This is mentioned in the Wisdom teeth - Oral Health Foundation reference. The pain is often felt around the back molars.
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Mouth Ulcers (Canker Sores): These painful sores can develop anywhere in the mouth, including on the gums. The Why Do My Gums Hurt? reference from Healthline notes mouth ulcers as a possible cause.
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Infection: An infection in the gums or a tooth abscess can cause significant pain and swelling. The Tooth and Gum Pain: Care Instructions reference from myhealth.alberta.ca mentions infections as a common cause of dental pain.
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Pericoronitis: This is an infection of the gum tissue around a partially erupted wisdom tooth. My Gums Behind My Molars Hurt specifically mentions this as a potential cause of pain behind the molars.
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Other Factors: Food allergies, vitamin deficiencies, and even certain types of cancer can sometimes manifest as gum pain. However, these are less common causes.
What to Do
If your gum pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, bleeding, or fever, consult a dentist immediately. They can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
