If you are concerned, you may have injured your gums. You may be looking for more information. This blog provides an overview of the subject of gum injuries. Read on to find out more.

What Causes Injured Gums?  

Several things can cause an injury to your gums. One of the most common is gum disease. Gum disease is often triggered by a build-up of plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums and can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and eventually tooth loss if it is not removed. Other common causes of injured gums include brushing too hard, clenching or grinding your teeth, biting your cheek or lip, using tobacco products, and trauma to the mouth from a fall or other accidents. 

What are the Symptoms of Injured Gums?

The most common symptom of injured gums is pain. However, you may also notice that your gums are red and swollen and bleed when brushed or touched. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to see your dentist as soon as possible so that they can adequately assess the situation and provide you with the appropriate treatment.

How are Injured Gums Treated?

Treatment for injured gums will vary depending on the cause of the issue. For example, your dentist may recommend deep cleaning or other treatments to remove the plaque from your teeth and gums and improve your oral hygiene habits. If you have clenching or grinding habits, they may recommend wearing a nightguard to help to protect your teeth from further damage. And if you have an infection, they may prescribe antibiotics to clear it up. No matter what the cause, it's essential to see your dentist so that they can provide you with the best possible treatment. 

How Can I Treat Injured Gums at Home?

If you have injured your gum, you can do a few things at home to help reduce the pain until you get yourself along to the dental clinic. Rinse with salt water, apply an ice pack, take pain medication as needed, and be sure to visit your dentist if the pain persists or other concerning symptoms develop. 

With proper care and treatment, most injuries to the gum will heal without any lasting damage; however, it's essential to seek professional dental care as soon as possible so that you can start treatment immediately. Contact a dentist today for more info.