Sore gums around teeth can feel tender, swollen, or painful when you chew, brush, or touch them. It’s a common problem that can come from simple causes like a new toothbrush or from more serious issues like gum disease. This post will help you spot danger signs, try safe home care, and know when to see a periodontist. Use these steps to protect your mouth and get care early if needed.
Common Causes Of Sore Gums Around Teeth
Gingivitis (early gum disease)
Gingivitis is inflammation caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. Early signs include redness, tenderness, and light bleeding during brushing or flossing. It is reversible with good cleaning and professional cleaning.
Poor oral hygiene, dental appliances, and trauma
Brushing too hard, abrasive toothpaste, ill-fitting crowns or aligners, or a new toothbrush can cause local soreness. Repeated rubbing or pressure creates inflamed spots that usually heal once the cause is fixed.
Systemic or temporary causes
Hormones (pregnancy, puberty), infections, certain blood pressure medications, and vitamin C or B deficiencies can make gums tender. Often these causes make the gums more reactive to plaque and minor irritations.
Signs That Sore Gums Around Teeth Could Be Gum Disease
If soreness comes with persistent bleeding, swollen gums, pockets between tooth and gum, receding gums, chronic bad breath, pus, or teeth that feel loose, it may be periodontitis (advanced gum disease). Each sign means more tissue or bone may be affected; the sooner you act, the more likely you can preserve teeth.
Quick Self-Care For Sore Gums Around Teeth
Rinse with a warm saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz water) twice daily. Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle strokes, and clean between teeth once a day with floss or interdental brushes. OTC pain relievers and an antiseptic mouthwash can reduce pain and bacteria. Avoid hard, crunchy foods and stop tobacco use. Do not use peroxide rinses long-term or scrub aggressively.
When Home Care Isn’t Enough: Red Flags To See a Periodontist
If soreness or bleeding lasts more than 7–14 days, worsens, or you notice pus, fever, swollen glands, or sudden tooth mobility, see a specialist right away. Rapid changes or systemic symptoms can signal an infection that needs professional treatment.
What To Expect At Your Periodontal Exam For Sore Gums Around Teeth
Clinical charting and pocket measurements
The periodontist will measure gum pockets, check attachment loss, and chart bleeding and mobility to assess disease extent.
3D imaging and diagnostics
Digital x-rays or 3D scans assess bone levels and help plan treatment. Imaging shows hidden problems that visual exam can miss.
Treatment options the periodontist may recommend
Options include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), LANAP® laser therapy, pinhole technique for recession, tissue grafting, and, if needed, implants. Complex cases may use computer-guided implant surgery or be treated at Manatee Surgical Center.
Prevention: How To Avoid Future Sore Gums Around Teeth
Keep twice-yearly cleanings, brush twice daily with a soft brush, floss daily, quit smoking, and manage conditions like diabetes. Regular periodontal checkups catch problems early.
Who Can Help With Persistent Sore Gums Around Teeth
Eastman Craighead Periodontics in Bradenton, FL offers specialists experienced in LANAP®, computer-guided implants, 3D imaging, and sedation. The team includes Dr. Lindsay Eastman, Dr. Justin Craighead, Dr. Christie Craighead, and Dr. Rachael Voigt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are sore gums always gum disease?
A: No. They can come from trauma, hormones, or meds. But persistent symptoms need evaluation.
Q: Can sore gums cause tooth loss?
A: Yes, untreated advanced gum disease can destroy bone and lead to tooth loss.
Q: Will antibiotics fix sore gums?
A: Antibiotics may help certain infections but won’t fix chronic plaque-driven gum disease alone.
Q: How soon will treatment relieve pain?
A: Many patients feel improvement within days after cleaning or a targeted therapy, but full healing may take weeks.
Looking For Help With Sore Gums Around Teeth In Bradenton, FL?
If sore gums around teeth persist, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Lindsay Eastman, Dr. Justin Craighead, Dr. Christie Craighead, or Dr. Rachael Voigt. Eastman Craighead Periodontics sees patients at two Bradenton, FL locations (Lakewood Ranch area and West Bradenton), offers flexible financing, sedation options, and access to Manatee Surgical Center for complex care.
