Sensitive Gums? Here Are Three Surprising Causes

According to the American Dental Association, if you’re experiencing high hormone estrogen levels or progesterone, you’re more likely to experience gum sensitivity.

These hormones can lead to an increase in blood flow to your gums, which may cause an amplified reaction to plaque or bacteria in your mouth. You may experience inflammation, swelling, or bleeding during times of high hormone levels or volatility.

Hormonal events that can trigger gum sensitivity include:

• Puberty

• Taking birth control

• Menstrual cycle

• Pregnancy

• Menopause

Helpful tip: Those with high levels of estrogen or progesterone are more likely to develop gum disease. If you're in this category, it’s especially important to practice a proper dental routine and schedule regular visits with your dental professional.

A common cause of sensitive gums is irritation from your diet or a dental appliance. Your mouth is adaptive and susceptible to environmental changes, much like other parts of your body. If you introduce a dental devices or regularly consume unhealthy foods or drinks, it could cause a reaction in your oral health.

If you consume too many acidic or sugary foods or beverages, it could inflame your gums or cause discomfort. For this reason, it’s a smart choice to eat a healthy diet to avoid the problem in the first place. Some items that you might not consider unhealthy may be acidic, like meals with tomatoes or drinks with lemon.

Tips for caring for sensitive gums from a poor diet:

• Limit or avoid sugary or acidic foods and drinks.

• Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after consuming a sugary or acidic item.

• Chew sugar-free gum or consume dairy products as both stimulate healthy saliva production.

• Eat meals instead of over-snacking to help limit the damage from acid or sugar.

• Brush your teeth for two minutes twice daily and clean between your teeth with a flossing device once daily.

In addition to causing temporary sensitivity or discomfort, acidic and sugary items can increase your chance of developing gum disease. Practice proper dental care and schedule regular appointments with your dental professional if you believe your diet has caused gingivitis or periodontitis.

Your gums may be experiencing sensitivity because of your braces, retainer, mouthguard, dentures, or other fixed or removable appliances. If you have a new appliance, rest easy knowing that it can take some time to get used to it.

If you find that your dental appliance has been damaged, worn down, or is causing continued irritation to your mouth, it’s a great idea to schedule an appointment with a dental professional. They can adjust your appliance or recommend a replacement that won’t cause discomfort or pain.

How you treat your sensitive gums depends on what’s causing them. You can use over-the-counter pain relievers or topical gels for temporary relief, but you should see your dental professional to assess any underlying conditions. Here are some other tips to help prevent and treat sensitive gums:

• Practice proper oral hygiene. Avoid aggressive brushing and keep gums strong by flossing. Use a soft-bristled brush to avoid gum irritation and fluoride toothpaste twice a day.

• Adjust your diet. Since a lack of vitamin K and C can contribute to gum sensitivity, make sure you get enough in your diet. Green leafy vegetables contain both these vitamins. Kiwi is another good source. Limit sugary, spicy and acidic foods and drinks.

• Drink more water. Or chew sugar-free gum If you’re unable to brush after a meal, to help wash food and bacteria from your teeth and mouth.

• Quit smoking. Smoking is a major contributor to gum disease and sensitivity and quitting will allow them to heal. 

It can be hard to tell if your gum sensitivity comes from gingivitis, periodontitis, or another condition. It’s vital to not only address your gum sensitivity but to treat its underlying cause to ensure it doesn’t progress. Consult your dental professional if you’re experiencing lasting gum sensitivity to receive care. You've done an excellent job preparing yourself for success with an understanding of some surprising causes of gum sensitivity.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.