6 Health Issues That May Be Causing Your Gum Pain

Do you have a pain in your mouth, but it’s not coming from your teeth? That discomfort may be coming from your gums. Your gum tissue plays a key role in keeping your entire mouth healthy and your smile intact. Unfortunately, there are a variety of oral health conditions and systemic health concerns that can cause your gums to become infected, damaged, or painful. Read on as your Richardson periodontist explains six issues that may be causing your gum pain as well as what other symptoms you should be on the lookout for.

1.) Canker Sores

Canker sores are small, painful lesions that develop on the soft tissues in the mouth or at the base of the gums. Thankfully, canker sores and the gum pain they cause typically clear up on their own within a few weeks. However, since your mouth is naturally brimming with bacteria, they may become infected. See your periodontist if you notice symptoms like:

• Sores that last for more than two weeks or develop frequently.
• Extreme difficulty eating or drinking or unmanageable pain.

2.) Gum Disease

Gum disease is a common bacterial infection that impacts well over half the American population. Its earliest stages may not cause discomfort and can be easy to overlook. If left untreated however, it can permanently damage the jawbone, cause tooth loss, and increase risk of heart disease. It’s crucial to catch gum disease as early as possible, so look out for symptoms like:

• Inflamed, puffy, or tender gums that bleed easily.
• Chronic bad breath or receding gums.

3.) Tobacco Use

Tobacco products hinder your body’s immune system and slow down its healing process, which leaves your gums vulnerable to infections. “Smokeless” tobacco is usually put between the cheek and gum, where it can cause more damage. Your gum pain can quickly evolve into gum disease or oral cancer, and may be accompanied by symptoms like:

• Loose, wobbly teeth.
• Painful gum sores or ulcers.

4.) Hormonal Changes

In woman, hormonal changes can affect the gums during different stages of life, including puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. These symptoms should pass on their own without causing permanent damage, but talk to your periodontist if you notice that:

• Your gums bleed very easily.
• Your gums are very painful.

5.) Tooth Abscess

If bacteria and pus collect around the roots of a tooth, they can cause the gums to swell or develop a small, pimple-like bump. This infection won’t go away on its own and may need to be treated with a root canal to save your tooth from extraction. See your periodontist right away if you have:

• A darkened tooth that is sensitive to pressure or temperatures.
• Swelling in your face, neck, or jaw.

6.) Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can start on your tongue, inner cheek, tonsils, or gums. Thankfully, this issue can usually be treated successfully if caught early enough. Keep a look out for warning signs like:

• Strange or unusual patches of discoloration, bumps, or sores.
• Cuts, irritation, or sores that won’t heal.

Whenever you notice odd dental symptoms or experience discomfort in your mouth, you should see your Richardson periodontist right away. They can closely inspect your gum tissue to discover what’s causing your gum pain and help you regain your happy, healthy smile.

About the Practice

EPO Dental Specialists is proud to provide Richardson, TX and the surrounding communities with the dedicated, comfortable, and high-quality dental treatments they need. Dr. Yaritza Vazquez is their periodontist on staff, which means she has specialized training in caring for the gums and other soft tissues that surround the tooth. If you’re experiencing any kind of gum pain, she has the experience and technology needed to restore your happy, healthy smile. Feel free to contact her or the other on-staff specialists via their website or at (972) 479-1200.