What to Do if You Have Gum Pain

Many people believe that pain is nature's way of telling us when there is something wrong. There is one problem, however, and that is that if you begin to have pain in your gums or teeth, it usually means that by the time it starts to hurt, the situation has reached its worse point. There are many causes for pain, such as abrasions, burns, lesions, or even growths, but most tooth or gum infections are typically caused by bacteria. There are many infectious conditions that can cause gum pain.

Gum disease could already be in the advanced stages by the time you experience pain. So be sure to see a doctor even if the pain seems to go away. Visit your dentist when gums are red, tender, discolored or bleeding. If the pain persists, it is probably time to go to your dentist as soon as possible. But in the meanwhile, take these steps for a little relief:

Brushing and flossing helps prevents gum disease, and it can also provide some short-term pain relief because it will remove bacteria. Use gentle brushing with a really soft brush, floss carefully, and then rinse with warm-water or by using a diluted over-the-counter mouthwash with alcohol might diminish some of the bacteria and ease some of the pain. Or if you want to try something with no alcohol, use warm salt water. If you have an abscessed tooth, the salt will help draw it out and drain it.

It is usually inflammation causing pain and discomfort. There are many over-the-counter products to reduce pain and inflammation when it comes to sore gums or teeth. Anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen helps reduce a fever if your pain is caused by an infection.

Apply ice for a natural anti-inflammatory because ice will help the swelling and can serve as a local anesthetic to dull nerves.

Some dentists recommend the use of oral grade hydrogen peroxide, which you must dilute with half water. Bacteria causing gum pain cannot survive if you use it.

Another way to kill bacteria is by using a simple paste of baking soda mixed with water and applying it gently on the gums.

It is an old wives tale to put aspirin on your gums, so don't do it because you will just create a chemical burn of the gum tissues.

If you have a cut, or an ulceration on the tissues of your gums, apply one of the many over-the-counter gels or ointments that contain benzocaine for the numbing that provides instant relief. It can also get rid of pain associated with a serious gum or tooth infection.

Try placing a tea bag on gum abrasion or canker sore. The tannic acid in tea contains an astringent that also can relieve pain.

You could try sucking on ice chips to replenish missing saliva if you are suffering from gum irritation due to a dry mouth.

Dentists will tell you that there is more gum destruction for those people who smoke, contributing to ulcerative gum conditions. Chewing tobacco is another gum irritant and can lead to a variety of gum cancers.

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