### Understanding Sore Gums and How to Treat Them Gum tissue is naturally soft and sensitive, so many things can cause sore gums. You might feel pain between your teeth, on top of some of your teeth, or all over your gums. Sometimes, the pain is worse when brushing or flossing. Here are some common causes and treatments: #### Gingivitis Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation, redness, and irritation of your gums. It's usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Symptoms include bleeding and soreness. Treatment involves professional dental cleaning and regular brushing and flossing. #### Oral Thrush Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by Candida. It appears as white spots on your tongue or inner cheeks and can spread to your gums, causing soreness. Treatment includes antifungal medications in the form of pills, lozenges, or mouthwash. #### Periodontitis Periodontitis is a serious gum disease that develops from untreated gingivitis. It causes your gums to recede and your teeth to become loose. Treatment requires professional cleaning methods like scaling and root planing, followed by regular oral hygiene. #### Hormonal Changes Hormonal changes, such as those from birth control pills, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can make your gums more sensitive and prone to soreness. Treatment may involve medication to regulate hormones and tips for managing sensitive gums. #### Canker Sores Canker sores are small, painful sores that can appear on your gums. They usually go away on their own, but you can use oral analgesics to relieve pain temporarily. #### Dental Appliances Braces, dentures, retainers, and mouthguards can cause gum irritation if they don't fit properly. Adjusting the fit or using dental wax can help reduce friction and soreness. If your sore gums don't improve or get worse, make an appointment with your dentist. Regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene are essential for preventing gum problems.