Itchy gums may sound like a strange symptom to have, but if you’ve ever experienced them, you know how annoying and uncomfortable they can be. What causes gums to itch, however, is a little less clear. We’ve rounded up the top 4 reasons you may be feeling that tingle near your teeth, and some actions you can take to get rid of it!
Allergies
Do you ever feel an itchy or fuzzy feeling in your mouth after eating certain raw fruits and vegetables? You may have oral allergy syndrome (OAS). It’s generally mild, and can be cleared up with an antihistamine, but if it doesn’t clear up or is impeding your breathing or eating, best to consult a doctor immediately.
Dry Mouth
As simple as it sounds, just making sure there’s enough saliva in your mouth is a simple solution to a host of oral health concerns, from halitosis to gum disease to, you guessed it, itchy gums! If you’re feeling a little dry due to medications you’re taking or just general dehydration, be sure to drink lots of water throughout the day to keep saliva flowing.
Hormonal Changes
Women and girls going through puberty, menopause, pregnancy, or any other dramatic shift in hormones (like starting or stopping birth control), may experience itchy gums as a side effect. As your hormones begin to regulate, this symptom should go away on its own, but if not, consult your doctor.
Gum Disease
You hear us say it all the time, but brushing and flossing for two minutes twice a day is really the best thing you can do for your mouth. If you’ve been a little lax about your oral health routine lately, and are experiencing itchy gums, it could be a symptom of plaque and tartar buildup. If you’ve got lots of tartar, you’ll need a dentist to remove it for you. They can also help you determine if you’re at risk for periodontal disease, and give you advice on how best to combat it. If you’re experiencing itchy gums or any other strange sensations in your mouth, as always, your best bet is to contact us and set up an appointment!
