Simple Methods for Effective Gum Pain Relief

 

Introduction

Do you have sudden pain in your gums? Swollen and bleeding gums can ruin your day at work. In most cases, cuts or injuries to the gum cause gum pain. This happens when food or objects, such as a toothbrush are inserted into the mouth. Dentures, loose teeth, and sensitivity to hot or cold food can also cause gum pain. If you need immediate gum pain relief, here are a few proven methods that will help ease the pain and get you through the rest of the day. These methods are easily accessible for you to do at home. 

 

Warm Salt Water Rinse

Grab a cup of warm water and add one teaspoon of salt. Warm water should not be boiling hot, and the temperature will depend on your tolerance and preference. Stir and make sure salt is dissolved to create a warm salt water solution. Swish the solution in your mouth and on the swollen area of your gums, and then spit it out. The salt water solution will not only provide a soothing effect but will also help prevent the growth of bacteria particularly if there are open cuts or wounds. 

 

Cold Compress

A cold compress is an effective gum pain relief for swollen gums caused by impact to the mouth. It can effectively reduce swelling and slow down blood circulation, which in turn numbs the pain. Using a cold compress is very easy; simply grab an ice pack and apply it to the swollen area. But, if you don’t have an ice pack, you can place ice cubes in a plastic bag.

 

Painkillers or Anti-Inflammatory Medicines

Over-the-counter painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications are also effective in providing gum pain relief. It might not be immediate as it will take a few minutes to take effect, but these are certainly one of the go-to solutions. Over-the-counter painkillers are nonsteroidal drugs that are accessible without a doctor’s prescription. These include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, and others. While waiting for the painkiller to take effect, you could try one of the two methods mentioned above.

 

Hydrogen Peroxide Wash

If your gum pain is the result of a recent dental surgery or a canker sore (also known as a mouth ulcer), hydrogen peroxide can help it heal faster and work as an antiseptic as well. Create a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution or a 35 percent food-grade hydrogen peroxide solution and use it as a mouthwash. Swish the solution in your mouth for at least 2 minutes before spitting it out. Your dentist might even prescribe this method for those who underwent dental surgery.

If your gum pain persists and the cause is unknown, we highly recommend visiting your dentist. It may be a sign of an underlying oral problem or is on the verge of developing one. You might also have a case of sensitive gums that is prone to cuts and bruises. If so, you can learn how to deal with sore and sensitive gums here.