When you get a headache, popping an Advil or two is usually the quick solution. After a big meal, you reach in to your medicine cabinet for Pepto-Bismol to fight your upset stomach. Yet when it comes to oral pains and sores on gums, many people are baffled about the causes of and solutions for oral misery!
Of course, you should always consult your dentist with any issues pertaining to your mouth. Still, you should be well informed about what exactly triggers the irritation and sores in your mouth. Not only that but preventing infections and knowing how to treat them are important as well.
First off, don’t panic! According to A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia whenever you are stressed, you raise the level of the cortisol hormone, which in response could further irritate your gums. Just relax! There are all kinds of reasons and causes for infections in your mouth and sores on your gums, but many of them are minor (again, relax!) Don’t try to become an Internet doctor, because you can’t always diagnose these problems yourself.
One out of five people experience canker sores and other oral like complications, so you’re not alone with this very common issue. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day are musts to making sure your gums are healthy. Along with that, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery, eating a well-balanced diet and drinking plenty of water will also help these sores on your gums.
Note that you should stay away from highly acidic foods as well as remarkably cold or hot food or drink. This means reconsidering the candy canes and hot cocoa around the Holidays! According to WebMD, these treats could cause more irritation to your gums and subject you to further pain.
Fever blisters could also be your culprit. These are tiny bumps on or around your mouth and gum area. When you have plaque buildup and/or painful gums, there’s a possibly of Gingivitis or Canker Sores too. Depending on the cause for your gum sores, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery website, some oral infections or diseases carry a risk of contagiousness. With that being said, try your best not to pick at them or irritate any bumps or sores in your mouth or gum. Simply wash your hands with soap and warm water whenever your hands are in contact with your mouth to avoid the chance of any possible infection spreading.
Whatever your problem may be with pain, irritation or sores on gums, it is always best to consult your dentist. No matter what blog post, article, or reference you may find or read, your dentist is will always the best solution. Why? They’re trained and educated professionals. Nevertheless, practicing and being knowledgeable about proper oral care never hurts – well at least not like oral pain! Contact Dr. Priti Naiktoday with any further questions about sores on your gums or to schedule your next checkup with this Vienna, VA local dentist.