Three Surprising Causes of Sensitive Gums

• Symptoms of Gum Sensitivity

• 1. Brushing Too Hard

• 2. Hormonal Changes

• 3. Appliance Irritation

• While often overlooked, gum health is a crucial part of your overall oral health.

• Sensitive gums are not always a symptom of gingivitis; other factors can cause sensitivity, swelling, and tenderness.

• Brushing too aggressively can irritate gums. It's better to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle, circular brushing motion.

• Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, can increase gum sensitivity and change how the body reacts to oral bacteria.

• Dental appliances such as braces, retainers, or dentures can pull at the gum line, causing temporary tenderness and irritation.

The gums are often a neglected part of your oral health routine. Although you may brush regularly and see your dental professional for scheduled check-ups, your teeth usually steal the show. Even when you notice your gums are sore or swollen, you might mistake the pain for a cavity. But gum health is extremely important and should be made a top priority when caring for your oral health. After all, this tissue is trusted to protect your teeth and keep them healthy, and while periodontal disease is the culprit in many cases, sensitive gums can be a symptom of other oral irritants, too.

Swelling and tenderness are often signs of gingivitis, but it's not the only condition that can leave your gums feeling less than robust. It's understandable to assume tender gums are the result of gingivitis, but this isn't always the case. When your gums become sensitive to hot and cold – or inflamed and sore after applying moderate pressure (when brushing your teeth, for example) – gingivitis is just one of the possible causes. Consider your symptoms to see if it's the result of one of the following surprising causes of sensitive gums:

Some individuals' gums can be sensitive to pressure, particularly when suffering from gum disease, so brushing too hard can leave them feeling irritable. You don't need a stiff toothbrush to get a great clean; rather, it's about technique. Consider a soft-bristled toothbrush, which uses softer bristles and polishing cups that allow you to focus on brushing more gently. Massage your gums in circular motions rather than brush harshly. And, if you have a sensitive mouth or tissue then consider a mild SLS-free toothpaste such as Colgate Total Active Prevention Gum Care & Sensitivity.

Changes in your hormones can result in sensitive gums as well. Gums become more sensitive because of hormone fluctuations – such as those common during pregnancy – and these can change the way your body interacts with the bacteria you introduce to your mouth. This can result in gum and tooth decay, so it's important to see your dental professional as scheduled during pregnancy and mention any changes in oral health to your OB/GYN to avoid lasting damage.

Braces, retainers, dentures and mouthguards can all tug at your gum line, leaving it extra tender if they've temporarily exposed more sensitive underlying tissue. In some cases, this sensitivity will go away as your mouth adapts to the appliance. If your gums continue to hurt, however, see your dental professional or orthodontist to ensure the right fit with less sensitivity.

Gum disease is often the reason for periodontal soreness, but it's not always the reason for your sensitivity. Gums that are sensitive without bleeding might be trying to tell you a different story. Before attributing the pain to gingivitis, consider some of the other causes – you might be surprised at which of your habits could be causing sore gums.