Plain Sailing Ways to Treat Sore Gums

Gum tissues are delicate and sensitive. So, any damage to those tissues can cause toothache. You might actually feel the pain while you’re brushing too hard and flossing or even while chewing something. At times you might even start bleeding, which should be taken into quick consideration because it might lead to gum infection.

Causes for Sore Gums

Gingivitis

It is a very mild form of gum disease that can cause irritation, redness, and swelling at the bottom of your teeth. This results in the formation of bacteria that stays on your teeth and further  hardens under your gum line into tartar (calculus) which collects bacteria. It mainly occurs because of poor oral hygiene.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that can cause damage to your gum and is also capable of destroying the bones that support your teeth. The worst part is you get to lose your teeth. Not only that but this bacteria can enter your bloodstream through gum tissues and can cause damage to other parts of the body because periodontitis is highly linked with respiratory disease. It also creates problems in controlling blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.

Thrush

It is an outgrowth of a fungus called Candida which affects your mouth. This is the same fungus responsible for vaginal infection. This fungus can be identified by spots on your tongue or inner cheeks. These spots are capable of reaching your gums or to the roof of your mouth. If they achieve that then you might feel some soreness or irritation.

Tips to Treat Sore Gums and Soothe the Pain

1. Heat Compress

The first method that comes to our mind to treat sore gums is hot water. Boil some water to a temperature that you can tolerate. Take a clean cloth and mildly soak it in the water. Take that cloth and place it on your cheek where you feel the pain. The heat gives you relief from the pain.

2. Rinse with Salt Water

The second easiest way to treat your sore gum is saltwater. It is a very good home remedy when in need of timely relief. Add 1tsp of salt in warm water, rinse your mouth for a few seconds and spit it out.

3. Tea Bags

Some of the tea brands contain a compound called tannins which is a chemical compound that gives some kind of bitter flavor, dryness and also provides color in certain teas. These tannins can reduce the pain in your gum by destroying the bacteria that is booming and irritating your gums. Some of the tea bags that can be used to get rid of your gum pain are Green tea, Hibiscus tea, and Black tea.

Place the teabag in boiled water for 5 mins and take it and leave it for a while. When the bag is warm, place it in the affected area for 5 mins.

4. Baking Soda

The final method to treat sore gums is by using baking soda. Baking soda that has sodium bicarbonate works to minimize the toothache and prevents it from gum infection. Mix baking soda with warm water and also add 1tsp of turmeric because it acts as an antibacterial agent. Then gently apply it to the affected area for instant relief.

Other ways to treat sore gums may include avoiding the use of tobacco, improving your nutrition, reducing stress in your life along with maintaining good oral hygiene.