Accidental dental damage

Posted on: 26 February 2018

If you've noticed unusually red gums whilst looking in the mirror, or an unusual amount of sensitivity during brushing, you may be dealing with inflamed gums. Whilst inflamed gums can be a quite serious problem if left untreated, you can take some smart measures right now to prevent major issues later. Here's what you can do. 

Choose the Right Type of Toothbrush

When you're trying to minimise inflammation in your gums, it's important to have the right toothbrush. A medium or hard bristle brush can greatly agitate the gums and make the inflammation much worse. Opt for the softest bristle toothbrush possible.

Remember to avoid heavy pressure whilst brushing. Many people feel the urge to brush harder when the brush is softer, but that will only worsen the problem. As long as you floss properly after brushing and get regular teeth cleanings, you won't need to worry about plaque and tartar accumulating.

Avoid Damaging Products

Certain products commonly used on teeth -- namely, home whitening products -- can cause serious problems for anyone who already has sensitive gums. The main ingredient in whitening products, a form of peroxide, can quickly take your gums from mildly irritated to extremely inflamed. If you want to whiten your teeth, opt for a professional laser whitening at your dentist, as your gums will be completely protected during the whole process. 

Use a Specialised Toothpaste

Opt for a specialised toothpaste that is advertised as a sensitive formula. A sensitive teeth toothpaste includes ingredients that help relieve pain whilst also rebuilding enamel that has worn away. Commit to using only the sensitive teeth toothpaste rather than rotating it with a regular toothpaste. In this way, you'll get the full benefits more quickly.

If you're consistent about brushing with a sensitive teeth toothpaste and a soft bristle toothbrush whilst avoiding home whitening, your gum sensitivity can improve more quickly than you might imagine. However, if you don't get relief soon, it's time for the next step...seeing your dentist. 

Get Help From Your Dentist 

If you have a serious case of inflamed gums, your dentist will help by first determining the origin of the problem. In many cases, inflamed gums are the direct result of gum disease, and your dentist provides dental services that treat it quite effectively. Regular teeth cleanings are important in gum disease treatment, as they prevent bacteria from entering the pockets of the gums and causing inflammation.

In severe cases of inflammation caused by gum disease, the dentist may need to surgically remove the diseased or dead gum tissue. If there's insufficient gum tissue left after surgery, a solution like gum tissue grafting may help restore your gums to a healthy level.

Of course, it's important that you maintain the oral care routine recommended by your dentist after your inflamed gums treatment. By taking good care of your mouth at home and seeing your dentist for follow-up care regularly, you won't have to deal with inflamed gums again.