Having the perfect smile is not exactly easy —it takes a lot of effort and oral care to maintain your oral health. Brushing, flossing, and regularly attending your dental cleaning and examination sessions are core parts of your oral hygiene. However, even with the best care, dental issues can arise. You might spot a cavity or support a toothache once in a while. Moreover, some people even notice problems with their gum health, experiencing gum disease symptoms. Hence, you might be wondering, ‘Why are my gums itchy?’
You should immediately visit your dentist when there’s a problem with your gums. In the meantime, we’ll mention some factors that can lead to itchy gums. Furthermore, we’ll mention how to deal with irritated gums.
Why Do My Gums Itch?
Healthy gums are crucial for your oral health. It can be quite uncomfortable to manage itchy and irritated gums. This is why we’ll narrow down the possible reasons you have itchy gums. These causes include the following:
1. Gingivitis
Plaque buildup along your gum line can often lead to bacterial infections. It starts as a periodontal disease known as gingivitis. Consequently, you’ll experience symptoms like bleeding, pain, redness, swelling, bad odor, and more. Itching might also occur as a result of gum disease. You’ll need gum disease treatment from a professional to prevent further issues,
2. Dry Mouth
Salivary flow is important for our oral health. The lingering food particles and bacteria on the surface of your teeth can lead to dental issues, but saliva removes them. Nevertheless, a number of reasons might lead to a dry mouth. Lack of saliva can lead to itchy gums and other oral health issues.
3. Hormonal Changes
You can blame your hormones and their fluctuations for causing itchy gums. Whether you’re pregnant, menstruating, or experiencing menopause, hormonal changes occur. Hormonal changes bring multiple symptoms, and itchy, sensitive gums are one of them. Gum disease during pregnancy is also common; practice the precautionary tips to avoid the issue.
4. Allergies
Your gums might itch if you suffer from seasonal or pet allergies. This is because sinuses can dry out during allergies. And, since your gums are in close proximity to your sinuses, they could become itchy, irritated, and more.
5. Plaque
A creamy, odorless substance called plaque can accumulate on your teeth. Gradually, food particles and debris increase the production of plaque. This can lead to symptoms like itchiness in your gums.
How To Stop Itchy Gums?
After your periodontitis determines the cause of your itchy gums, they’ll proceed with the most appropriate treatment. The oral healthcare provider might fix your itchy gums in the following ways:
- Removing plaque or tartar
- Suggesting OTC allergy medications or antihistamines
- Lukewarm salt water rinses
- Gum disease treatment
- Scaling and root planing
Apart from these, you should become more diligent with your brushing and flossing. This will remove any plaque and bacteria on your teeth and gums. Plus, consult your dentist on how to get rid of a dry mouth. As for hormonal changes, you can discuss the issue with the concerned doctor.
What’s Next?
There are multiple causes of itchy gums, like gum disease, plaque buildup, hormonal changes, allergies, and dry mouth. Your dentist can suggest the best treatment based on the reason and your oral health. The Bayside Dental & Orthodontics team is adept in treating your dental and oral health issues. Visit us at 2300 7th Street, Bay City, TX 77414, for a better smile. You can also book an appointment at (979) 330-4113.