Gum pain can be a sign of inflammation (gingivitis), infection or a canker sore. It can become disabling, but can also be avoided. By following serious oral hygiene.

The gums are part of the oral mucosa and help hold the teeth securely in place. They are a part of the periodontium: the supporting tissue of the teeth, along with the bone and supporting fibers (called periodontium).

When the tooth is clean, the gum around it is pink in color. But if the tooth is not properly cleaned, plaque builds up on its surface and the gum tissue can become sore.

While brushing teeth, they can be sensitive and cause mild pain. But the pains can persist, be more or less strong, and more or less disabling (for example, they may prevent a correct diet).

Gum pain may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

• reddish, swollen, shiny gums;
• bad breath that persists;
• bleeding during tooth brushing or which persists;
• numbness or tingling;
• but also dental pain.

In most cases, pain in the gums is caused by inflammation of the gums, this is called gingivitis:

• plaque (an invisible film laden with bacteria that is deposited on the teeth daily) accumulates;
• it hardens (if it is not removed by tooth brushing) and becomes tartar;
• small infections are created;
• this can lead to inflammation of all the supporting tissues, this is called periodontitis.

Other causes of gum pain include:

• improper positioning of an orthodontic appliance or dental prosthesis;
• the presence of a canker sore or abscess;
• or an infection, a fungal infection.

If left untreated, gum pain can become a recurring ailment, lead to abscesses, or even cause tooth loss. Gum pain can also prevent healthy eating.

Gum pain can be prevented by taking care of your oral hygiene. It is therefore advisable to:

• brush your teeth and tongue twice a day (at least 20 to 30 minutes after eating);
• use fluoride toothpaste;
• limit the consumption of sugary foods or drinks;
• favor a balanced diet;
• or not to smoke or chew tobacco.

Also, it is essential to consult a dentist regularly. It is even more so if the gums change color, start to bleed, shine or swell, or if a taste of metal appears in the mouth.

To relieve gum pain and see it disappear, you have to treat what is causing it. Let us quote for example:

• antibiotic or antiseptic treatment, scaling and monitoring of strict oral hygiene, in case of gingivitis;
• mouthwashes, in case of canker sores;
• or the repositioning of the prosthesis or poorly adjusted dental apparatus.