Tips for Sensitive Gums

Sore, sensitive gums can make oral hygiene a challenge. Although brushing and flossing are effective at maintaining a healthy mouth, gum sensitivity often makes people avoid these activities due to pain. Gum sensitivity can range from mild to severe, but even those with minor sensitivity should not ignore the fact that issues with the gums could indicate something more serious. Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allan Stein of Northfield Dental Group are committed to helping patients achieve a healthy, pain-free smile. Ahead, learn more about what you can do if you have sensitive gums.

Don’t Avoid Brushing and Flossing

Although brushing and flossing with gum sensitivity can seem like a daunting task for many patients, these actions can actually help prevent more severe issues with your gums. Brushing twice a day with high-quality toothpaste can prevent plaque buildup at the gum line.

Similarly, flossing effectively removes bacteria and stuck food from around the teeth. If these bacteria and plaque are not removed thoroughly, they can cause gum irritation and bleeding, further contributing to sensitivity.

Lead a Healthy Lifestyle

Your lifestyle choices ultimately impact your oral health, and it is important to make wise decisions. Eating a sugary diet negatively impacts oral health and leads to cavities and gum disease. This is especially true if the food in question is sticky and hard to remove, such as chewy candy. Limiting these foods also limits plaque.

Likewise, those interested in maintaining gum health should avoid smoking. Smoking can weaken the body’s immune system, making it harder to fend off gum infections.

Keep an Eye Out for Gum Disease

When plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional during a cleaning. The condition has four main stages:

Gingivitis: The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis is most often associated with sensitive, swollen, red gums. Luckily, this stage, as well as its effects, can be reversed with improved oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

Mild periodontitis: Gingivitis eventually develops into mild periodontitis, which is responsible for the gums pulling away from the teeth, creating pockets for plaque and tartar to become trapped.

Moderate Periodontitis: Those with moderate periodontitis can expect even more bone loss around the teeth as harmful bacteria damage the supportive structure of the teeth.

Severe periodontitis: This stage of gum disease is when the teeth become loose and tooth loss is likely to occur.

Make Your Dental Appointment Today

You don’t have to live with gum sensitivity. There are actions you can take to improve your oral health, including scheduling your dental checkup with Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allan Stein at their New Jersey office. Contact us today to book an appointment.