Are your morning and nighttime routines ending with the same question lately – why do my gums hurt when I brush my teeth? It could be something as simple as the type of bristle you use, but no matter the exact cause, it’s definitely not something to ignore. Let’s help you get to the root of the problem and keep your smile on the right track.
Bottom Line – Why Do My Gums Hurt When I Brush My Teeth?
So, why do my gums hurt and bleed when I brush my teeth? Well, there are plenty of possible culprits. Most commonly, it’s a sign that the brushing might be too hard on teeth and gums. Other times, braces or dentures might be the ones irritating gums.
Also, hormonal changes can affect the gums at different life stages, especially for women. Last but not least, if you’re dealing with intense sensitivity that simply won’t go away, gum disease might be behind it. If the discomfort persists, you should get in touch with your Charlotte dentist in SouthPark as soon as possible.
Gums in Pain After Brushing Might Be Due to the Technique
Let’s take it one possible reason at a time, starting with the least serious one. If your oral hygiene routine includes a hard-bristled toothbrush or you tend to be just a tad bit too vigorous with the brushing, it’s an easy way to irritate gums.
Brushing teeth like you’re scrubbing a tough stain doesn’t mean you’re getting a more thorough clean. In fact, besides the soreness in the gums, going too hard can wear down the tooth enamel over time.
The secret to strong and healthy teeth? Gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush. For best results, angle it at 45 degrees toward the gums – this way, you’re not just cleaning the teeth but also giving the gum line some love. Also, rinsing right after might feel natural, but skipping this step can help the toothpaste do its job even better!
Braces and Dentures Might Be Behind the Soreness
If you’ve got braces, dentures, retainers, or other teeth alignment devices, you might start to wonder – why do my gums hurt when I touch them? Maybe they’re not fitted properly, and over time, the constant friction can lead to tiny cuts along the gum line, making them particularly sensitive.
Why Do My Gums Suddenly Hurt? Can It Be Hormones?
Absolutely! Hormones love to stir up trouble, and gums aren’t immune to their antics! First things first, during puberty, increased blood flow can make them feel tender or swollen.
It might be hard to believe, but there is plenty of research on how menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can all have an effect on gum health. And let’s not forget about stress – it can cause toothaches, so why wouldn’t it be the culprit behind inflammation? It’s all connected, and that’s why a holistic dentistry approach can be the right move.
Canker Sores Are Common Culprits
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, can develop at the base of your gums. Most commonly with a white center and red edges, canker sores can make gums hurt when brushing.
There’s no magic cure for canker sores, but they do leave on their own, usually within a week or two. In the meantime, steer clear of salty, spicy, and acidic foods. You can also try these easy home remedies to alleviate the sore:
- Rinse with salt water,
- Dab a little honey on the sore,
- Apply a cold compress or ice cube.
Why Do My Gums Bleed and Hurt When I Brush My Teeth? The More Serious Case Scenario
Swelling, redness, and bleeding can be the first signs of periodontitis, also known as gum disease. If you regularly visit a dentist in Charlotte, NC, for cleanings and exams, they’ll be able to catch the early signs of gum disease and treat it.
This issue starts when plaque builds up along the gum line, and if left untreated, it can advance and result in various complications. Luckily, there are many effective treatments, such as Perio ProtectⓇ we offer at our clinic, Aspire Dental Wellness.
Our team will take impressions of your teeth and create a custom-built tray based on them. You’ll be given a gel with hydrogen peroxide and clear instructions on how to use it. The best of all? You’ll basically be treating yourself from the comfort of your own home, inserting the trays a couple of times each day for just 10 to 15 minutes. Who knew dental work could be so convenient?
When Should You See a Charlotte, NC, Dentist?
So, now that we’ve covered the most common culprits, when is the right time to schedule a dentist appointment? Well, you certainly should wait around wondering – why do my gums hurt so bad when I brush my teeth? Pick up the phone if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent discomfort,
- Red and swollen gums,
- Bleeding gums,
- Dentures that don’t fit properly,
- The gum line pulling back from the teeth,
- Wobbly teeth,
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold.
Visit Aspire Dental Wellness for the Healthiest Smile Yet
Our team, led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, knows that every smile is unique, and that’s why we’re committed to providing each and every one of our patients with a personalized treatment plan. Whether it’s simply adjusting the daily routine or directly treating the root cause of the issue, we’re here to make sure you feel great again. Don’t wait around, feeling uncomfortable – contact us to schedule an appointment, and let’s get your gums back to their happy, healthy selves!
