Why Do My Gums Hurt When I Brush My Teeth?

Painful gums are a common problem. It could be due to a number of reasons, from brushing incorrectly or due to gum disease. Read the following article to find out the source of your pain.

Gum Disease

Swollen, tender, bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease. Gum disease is caused when plaque builds up on your teeth. Plaque contains harmful bacteria that can build up under your gum line and cause them to become inflamed. In the early stages, it is gingivitis. However, it can progress into periodontitis which results in bone loss, meaning that it is irreversible.

Abscessed Tooth

When you have an infection by the root of your tooth, it forms an abscess. Although they may not always be painful, they can cause the gum to swell, making it painful to brush.

Stress

Although this may seem strange, stress raises your level of cortisol which increases the likelihood of inflammation throughout the body, including your gums.

Tobacco

If you smoke or vape you’re more likely to have gum disease. The tobacco causes the amount of oxygen flowing in the blood to fall, meaning that the gums can’t heal themselves as well. Not only does this make brushing painful but it also leads to cancer.

Brushing Incorrectly

It is important that your brush your teeth twice a day, but to be able to reap the benefits, you need to make sure you are doing it properly. This means using a soft bristled toothbrush, brushing gently with circular motions rather than back and forth.

Regardless of the cause of your pain, pain while brushing your teeth isn’t normal and you should contact us on 01723 670500 to book an appointment with your dentist who will find what is causing the problem.