Itchy gums can be caused by periodontal disease, allergies, medication, bruxism, or mouth injuries. Treatment involves addressing the underlying condition. Gum disease is a common cause and can be treated with medicated mouthwash and toothpaste. Bruxism can be treated with a mouth guard. Itchy gums should be reported to a dentist, as they can indicate gum disease or other health complications.
Itchy gums can be caused by a variety of things, including periodontal disease. Sometimes allergies, taking certain medications, bruxism, or mouth injuries can cause itchy gums. Treatment usually includes treating the underlying condition.
One of the most common causes of itchy gums is periodontal disease, mainly gingivitis. Itching can be accompanied by gum soreness, gum recession, bad breath, and bleeding gums. Most gum disease is caused by bacteria, and treatment usually involves the use of medicated mouthwash and toothpaste. These work by killing the bacteria that cause gingivitis and by removing plaque from the teeth and gums.
Sometimes bruxism causes itchy gums if you injure your teeth or experience gum recession. Bruxism is a condition where you grind your teeth or clench your jaw. This can eventually lead to damage to the gums and teeth by grinding down the tooth enamel and causing the gums to pull away from the teeth. This condition can be treated by using a specialized mouth guard which prevents the occurrence of grinding.
Injuries to the mouth can also cause itchy gums, especially on injuries involving an open wound. Sometimes itchiness can occur as cuts or lesions heal. Most gum sores heal on their own, although sometimes a medicated mouthwash can be used to speed up the process.
In some cases, medications used to treat other conditions can cause itchy gums as a side effect. This is uncommon and many times these effects will lessen on their own once the body adjusts to the new medication. If not, another drug may be used or the dosage may need to be changed. Other gum-related symptoms may also be present, as itching is often caused by irritation of the gums.
Itchy gums should always be reported to a dentist or other oral health professional. This is especially true if your itchy gums are accompanied by bleeding, gumline recession, pain, or frequent irritation. These are all indications of gum disease, which is a serious health condition. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and infection. Poor oral health has also been linked to heart disease and other complications.
Most conditions that cause itchy gums can be treated successfully. Very rarely, itchy gums can be a sign of an underlying health condition. If no gum problems are found, further tests may be needed to determine the cause of the itching.
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