Have you ever experienced gum itching at the most unexpected moments? For example, during the most important speech of your career, an uncontrollable itch could make you nervous and flustered. Unfortunately, millions of people, just like you, face gum itchiness at the most unforeseen times.
Occasional itching like this is perfectly normal. However, if you have itching that lasts for days and intensifies over time—so much so that it negatively affects your daily life—this could be a sign of a different underlying condition.
Allergic reactions to something you ate or gum diseases can be among the causes of gum itching. To fully eliminate the itch, it is crucial to know what is triggering it.
In this article, we will explain the causes of gum itchiness and how to stop this itch. This way, you can gain a clearer idea of what may be triggering you and discover ways to prevent it.
Causes of gum itchiness
Gum itchiness can have multiple causes, including but not limited to the following most common triggers:
1. Allergy
If you feel itching in your mouth after eating raw fruits or experience severe nausea, you might have an allergy. Among causes of gum itchiness, this is the mildest.
It may subside after rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash. However, in some patients, the allergy can be felt much more intensely. If you experience severe allergic attacks, you should consult a dental specialist.
2. Gum diseases
If you have various gum diseases, especially gingivitis, your gums may itch as a reaction. Inflammation is often the early stage of other conditions. It is characterized by gum bleeding and redness. You should see a dentist before it progresses further.
3. Inadequate oral care
If you neglect your oral hygiene routine—particularly if you do not brush your teeth twice daily and use dental floss at least twice a week—experiencing gum itchiness is very common.
Food particles left behind accumulate and increase harmful bacteria. This can lead to gum inflammation, bad breath, and tooth decay.
4. Mouthwash
If your oral care routine does not include a mouthwash and you experience day-to-day gum itchiness, adding mouthwash to your routine is a great idea. However, be careful when choosing the right mouthwash.
Mouthwashes with high alcohol content can dry out your mouth and make your gums more prone to irritation. If you notice gum itching after using a mouthwash, try using a natural or alcohol-free mouthwash.
5. Smoking and tobacco use
Substances like cigarettes and tobacco are major causes of many oral health problems, including tooth decay and gum disease.
Gums constantly exposed to smoke become increasingly weakened. Weakened gums get irritated, resulting in gum itchiness.
6. Poorly fitting dental appliances
Ill-fitting dental appliances can also be among the causes of gum itching. When dentures or other devices do not fit properly, they rub against and irritate the gums.
If your gums itch, especially after placing a dental appliance, it may not suit your mouth’s shape or your mouth may not have adapted to it yet.
In either case, you need to see a dental specialist. If the appliance is unsuitable, ask your dentist to adjust it.
7. Dry mouth
Our mouth produces saliva to prevent dryness. Saliva helps keep bacteria at bay in the mouth. If you have dry mouth, your saliva may not function properly. This can lead to gum itchiness and gum inflammation among other issues.
8. Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes—such as those during pregnancy or menopause—can be listed among the causes of gum itching. If the itching reaches a bothersome level, you can have your hormone levels checked and get recommendations from a relevant specialist.
9. Stress
As with many conditions, stress is also one of the main causes of gum itching. If you are stressed, you may feel a psychological itch in your gums.
How to stop gum itchiness
If you experience gum itching, your first step should be to visit a dentist. If there is no underlying problem, you can alleviate the itch by applying the following tips.
If you wonder how to stop gum itchiness, you can follow our recommendations:
- Adhere to your daily oral care routine.
- Use dental floss after meals.
- Avoid foods and drinks that may cause irritation.
- Reduce or, if possible, quit smoking and tobacco use.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Attend regular dental check-ups.
