Itchy gums: Causes, treatments, and relief tips

If you’ve ever noticed an itching or tickling sensation in your gums, you’re not alone. Itchy gums are a common oral health problem, and while the symptoms are often mild, without any relief, they can be quite uncomfortable. “But why is my gum itchy?”, you may ask. From allergies to other oral health concerns, there are a number of reasons your gums might suddenly become itchy and tingly.

In this guide, we’ll explore questions like “Why do my gums itch?” and “Why are my gums itchy after brushing?”. We’ll also explore effective treatments for itchy gum relief to get your mouth back to feeling healthy and comfortable.

Itchy gums meaning

 

Itchy, sore gums can be annoying and uncomfortable. You may notice a tingling or itching sensation in your gums that makes you want to rub or scratch them to relieve the discomfort. Itchy gums can affect a specific area of the gums or the entire mouth. And alongside the itchiness, you may notice other symptoms like:¹

 

• Redness or inflammation
• Pain or soreness
• Dryness or a tight feeling in your gums
• Tenderness or sensitivity
• Small bumps or sores
• Bleeding of the gums 

Why is my gum itchy?

 

While itchy gums are usually nothing too serious to worry about, they often indicate a specific change or oral health concern in the mouth. Here are some of the most common reasons for itchy, sore gums:

 

• Dental plaque

Dental plaque is a sticky biofilm filled with bacteria that forms around and on your teeth. If left untreated, the plaque can lead to gum inflammation and may eventually result in tooth decay.² A significant build-up of plaque can also lead to symptoms such as itching gums and teeth.

 

• Allergies

Itchy gums can sometimes be caused by certain allergies, such as food allergies, which may also bring about other symptoms like a runny nose and coughing.³ Additionally, you might be reacting to an oral care product, for example, a new toothpaste or mouthwash. If you notice that your gums are itchy after brushing, this could indicate a sensitivity or mild allergic reaction to one of the ingredients in these products.

 

• Hormonal changes

Fluctuating changes to your hormones, such as during puberty, pregnancy or menstruation, can also result in itchy gums and other oral symptoms.¹

 

• Dental work irritation

Orthodontic appliances such as braces, retainers and dentures can rub against the gums if fitted poorly, which can lead to itchy, sore gums.¹

 

• Oral care habits

Did you know that some of your daily oral care habits could explain why your gum feels itchy? Some habits that could cause irritation in the gums include:

 

• Brushing too hard or overbrushing 
• Using a toothbrush with hard or stiff bristles
• Gums itch after flossing with too much force
• Certain teeth whitening products
• Using a harsh alcohol-based mouthwash

 

• Gingivitis

A more serious cause of itchy gums is gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. As well as experiencing itchy, sore gums, gingivitis can also result in bleeding, swelling, and redness in the gums.¹

Itchy gum relief: How to relieve itchy gums

 

The best way to relieve itchy gums and prevent them from coming back will depend on the cause. Here are some itchy gum relief and prevention tips you could try:

 

1. Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine

In order to keep your gums healthy and happy, maintaining a consistent daily oral care routine is an essential first step to preventing itchy gums. Here’s what you should do:

 

• Brush twice daily, both morning and night, using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Avoid brushing too forcefully; use gentle pressure and with small circular motions.
• Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every couple of months once the bristles start to fray.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste to help protect your teeth against decay.¹
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food debris between teeth. For an effective but gentle clean, the Philips Power Flosser 3000 provides effortless and thorough cleaning using targeted water streams to clean between teeth and along the gumline more gently.

 

2. Visit your dentist regularly

Ensure you visit your dentist regularly for check-ups or professional cleanings, particularly if you notice itchy gums or any other oral health concerns. By doing so, you can check for early signs of more serious issues and prevent itchy gums in the future.

3. Avoid potential irritants

Smoking or vaping can harm your gum tissue and negatively affect your overall oral health. If you’re experiencing itchy gum symptoms, it is recommended to quit or avoid smoking altogether. In addition, certain foods, particularly spicy or hard foods, can further irritate your gums, so it’s best to steer clear of these if you are having symptoms.

Itchy gums are usually a sign that your mouth could use some extra care and attention, and should never be overlooked, especially if the irritation is persistent or accompanied by more severe symptoms. By pinpointing the underlying cause and using the right treatments, most people can find itchy gums relief and prevent the issue from escalating. And if your symptoms don’t improve, always consult a dentist to ensure there is nothing more serious at play. 

With the right care, you can restore comfort, protect your gums, and maintain optimal oral health, ensuring your mouth feels its best every day.