What to do about sore gums

If you are dealing with red, inflamed, and sore gums, you may be dealing with discomfort. These are often the early signs of a condition called gingivitis, which is an infection that can become a more serious problem if untreated and it progresses to periodontitis. For some, it may be just be caused by irritation from dentures or changes in hormone levels. Dr. Steven E. Holbrook and his team in Albuquerque, NM encourage you to speak to a dentist about the cause of the problem, then consider at-home care. Below are just a few things to consider when it comes to managing sore gums.

• Use the right toothbrush. For some patients, hard-bristled brushes or aggressive brushing can lead to red and swollen gums. By using the right tools, patients can not only keep their teeth clean but reduce inflammation.
• Rinse with salt water. Soft tissue injuries and swollen gums may benefit from a salt water rinse in the mouth. It can sooth inflammation and also wash away bacteria and plaque.
• Use a mouthwash. It can be beneficial to integrate the use of a mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine each day. Those with ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide can ease inflammation while also fighting off bacteria that can lead to periodontal disease.
• Use over-the-counter medications. Swollen gums that are painful may also benefit from the use of over-the-counter pain medications to provide comfort. These should be used as needed per the directions, and can be combine with any of the above solutions. Acetaminophen works best for pain while ibuprofen is beneficial for fighting inflammation. There are also special gels that can be used on the gums to numb them and ease discomfort too, and these are often found at the local pharmacy.

Call Dr. Steven E. Holbrook today

Albuquerque, NM area patients dealing with sore or inflamed gums will want to speak to their dentist about their needs. Call 505-881-1159 to request a consultation appointment with Dr. Steven E. Holbrook, a dentist with over three decades of dental experience. The office is located in Suite C at 8228 Louisiana Boulevard NE and accepts new patients and families.