Brushing your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health. It can also be a source of pain if your gums are tender or inflamed. Gum pain when brushing can result from various causes. It includes gingivitis, periodontal disease, and improper brushing technique.

• Gingivitis is a gum tissue inflammation. It is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth. Gums become tender and inflamed, and brushing can be painful or uncomfortable. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleaning can usually reverse this condition.

• Periodontal disease is an advanced form of gingivitis. In this disease in which, the tissue surrounding the teeth becomes infected. Gums also start to recede due to bone loss. The gums become swollen and red. It makes them very sensitive when brushing or flossing.

Depending on how advanced it is, this condition can often be treated with scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgery. 

If you are experiencing gum pain when brushing your teeth, it is essential to visit your dentist so they can determine the cause and recommend treatment.

Reasons:

1. Rough brushing and flossing

Rough brushing and flossing techniques can irritate your gums. It causes pain and discomfort when you brush.

2. Medical Conditions

Certain underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, can increase the risk of developing tender. It inflamed gums that are sensitive to brushing.

3. Gingivitis

It is a common cause of gum pain when brushing. This condition occurs when plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. It causes inflammation and irritation of the gums.

4. Periodontal disease

It is another possible cause of gum pain when brushing. This condition occurs when the tissues surrounding the teeth become infected and inflamed. They make it difficult or painful to brush or floss.

5. Improper brushing

This technique can also factor in if you apply too much pressure with your toothbrush. Suppose you use a hard-bristled brush irritating your gums.

6. Canker sores

Gum pain, when irritating sores or ulcers, can also cause brushing on the gums. If you have canker sores or other mouth sores, it is essential to be gentle. You should avoid aggressive brushing that could worsen the condition.

7. Allergic reaction to dental hygiene products 

Dental hygiene products, such as toothpaste or mouthwash, can also cause gum pain when brushing. It occurs if you are allergic to them. If you suspect that your gums are reacting negatively to a product you use, try switching brands or using a different type of toothpaste altogether.

8. Hormones

Hormonal fluctuations, such as during puberty or pregnancy, can also increase the risk of developing inflamed. It causes tender gums that are sensitive to brushing. If this is the cause of your gum pain when brushing, it should resolve on its own with time.

Other reasons

In some cases, other underlying health conditions may be to blame for your gum pain when brushing. These include autoimmune diseases or thyroid disorders. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort in your gums, it is essential to speak with your dentist about the possible causes and recommended treatments for relief.

Treatment

• Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is one of the most common treatments. It is for advanced forms of gum disease, such as periodontitis or gingivitis. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line. It will reduce inflammatory responses and prevent further bone loss.

• Antibiotics

In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat infections in the gums. It will make them prone to pain when brushing. These medications can help manage and control the condition. It can also reduce any associated symptoms. These symptoms are swelling or inflammation.

• Gum surgery

In more severe cases of gum pain when brushing, your dentist may recommend a gum graft. He might suggest other surgical procedures to repair or rebuild the gums. This can help improve blood flow to the gingival tissues. It will restore proper function and health. It will minimize irritation from brushing in the future.

• Gum surgery

If gum pain when brushing is caused by advanced periodontal disease, more invasive treatment options may be necessary. It will help to restore the health of your gums. This may include surgical procedures. 

These are crown lengthening or gingival plastic surgery. In this procedure, excess tissue around the teeth is removed. It will help prevent further inflammation and irritation.

• Dietary changes

Making some dietary changes can also help reduce gum pain symptoms when brushing. These are limiting sugary or acidic foods. It contributes to the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. 

Additionally, focusing on eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of nutrient-rich foods can help promote good oral health. It reduces inflammation in the gums.

• Whitening products

If your gums are also discolored or sensitive from too much exposure to certain whitening products or teeth-whitening techniques, an alternative option may be recommended instead.

Although gum pain when brushing can be an uncomfortable and frustrating symptom. Many treatment options are available to help relieve your symptoms. It prevents further irritation.

• FAQs

How do I stop my gums from hurting when I brush?

There are several steps you can take to prevent gum pain when brushing. It includes practicing good oral hygiene habits by regularly brushing and flossing. You should be seeing your dentist for professional cleanings.

Should I keep brushing my gums if they hurt?

While it may be tempting to stop brushing your gums if they are sore because it can worsen the condition, it also increases the risk of more severe complications like gum disease or tooth decay. 

It is important to speak with your dentist. If you are experiencing persistent pain when brushing your gums. The dentist will guide you about the possible causes and recommended treatments for relief.

Why do my gums hurt if I brush my teeth every day?

There are several possible causes of gum pain when brushing. It includes advanced periodontal disease, gingivitis, or exposure to certain dental products or techniques. 

What does gingivitis look like?

Gingivitis is a common condition. It causes inflammation and irritation of the gums. Typically it results in redness, swelling, sensitivity, and bleeding when brushing. Other potential symptoms may include bad breath, receding gums, or loose teeth.

What do healthy gums look like?

Healthy gums are firm, pink in color, and don’t bleed when you brush or floss. If your gums are red or swollen, you must speak with your dentist as soon as possible about potential underlying causes and effective treatment options.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing gum pain when brushing, there are several steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms and prevent further irritation or complications. These may include practising good oral hygiene habits like regular brushing and flossing. You must use gentler dental products like soft-bristled toothbrushes or whitening products that are less facsimile, if any, can be used.