Gum sensitivity is one of those dental health issues that sometimes sneaks up on people, which is why some patients struggle with pinpointing an accurate time frame for this condition. However, because gum disease is progressive, it’s important to pay attention to the small, initial signs so that treatment measures can be taken. Gum tissue is amazingly resilient, and patients often find that tenderness, redness, and other signs that gum disease may be on the horizon subside substantially and may even disappear with the right course fo treatment. Here’s what you need to know if you’re experiencing gum sensitivity:
Gum Sensitivity May Signal the Onset of Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a condition that causes sensitivity in the gum tissues. Gums may also be swollen and red, and sometimes, they bleed during or after brushing and/or flossing. Unfortunately, many people tend to put off seeing their dentist when they first notice the signs that gingivitis may be in the house, especially if the symptoms are mild. This is the absolute wrong approach, however — like many dental health issues, gingivitis can actually be reversed if it’s caught early enough. If you don’t catch it early enough, it can develop into a more serious condition of periodontal disease.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a late-stage gum disease with the potential to result in a variety of adverse conditions. Patients who have developed periodontal disease often experience tooth loss, and if the infection becomes serious enough, it may enter the bloodstream and become systemic, which may possibly affect the body’s major organs.
What to Do for Sensitive Gum Tissue
One of the first things you should do if you notice a sudden onset of sensitivity in your gum tissues is to step up your oral hygiene routine. If your toothbrush is sharp and stiff, exchanging it for one that’s soft may be all that’s necessary. You should also add an antibacterial mouthwash to your oral care routine. If sensitivity doesn’t subside after taking these measures, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your oral health care provider.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us at your convenience if you have questions about keeping your gum tissues healthy or if you’d like to schedule an appointment.