3 Reasons Why Your Gums Itch

Itchy gums are not common, but when they occur, they can drive you crazy. You might find it very strange to have itching inside your mouth, but in fact, the itching is your body's way of sending you a message. Here are three possible causes of itchy gums. See a dentist to find out which one is affecting you.

1. Plaque

Plaque is a sticky film that is formed on the teeth by bacteria. One reason why you need to brush your teeth every morning and evening is to get rid of plaque, which can contribute to cavities and gum disease if you allow it to build up. When plaque builds up to a certain level, it can begin to irritate the gums, leading to itching.

To get rid of plaque, commit to brushing your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day. Remove distractions and focus on the brushing process to ensure you clean every part of your teeth. Daily flossing is also important to remove plaque from between the teeth. If the build-up is already bad, then it is likely that you will require a professional cleaning from your dentist to get rid of the plaque completely.

2. Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. The most common symptom of gingivitis is swollen gums that bleed when you floss or brush them. However, itching can also be a symptom.

The good news is that dentists can treat gingivitis relatively easily, compared to more advanced forms of gum disease. They may prescribe you an antibacterial mouth rinse to kill the bacteria that cause gum inflammation and discomfort. They may also give your teeth and gums a deep clean to get rid of bacteria and plaque. After the treatment, the itching should subside.

If you do not get gum disease treated while it is in its early stages, then it can become very serious and lead to tooth loss, so be sure not to ignore this informative symptom.

3. Allergies

Seasonal allergies usually cause itching in the eyes or nose, but it is possible for the gums to be affected as well. If the itching in your gums flares up when the pollen count is high, then allergies could be the cause. You could try taking antihistamine allergy medication to combat this annoying symptom.

Another possibility is that you are having an allergic reaction to something that you are eating. Try cutting foods out of your diet temporarily to see if the itching goes away.


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