Itchy gums: Causes and treatment

Itchy gums refer to a sensation of irritation or itching in the gums, which can be uncomfortable and distracting. After injuring your teeth or gums, you may experience itching as the cuts begin to heal. But itchy gums are not always a sign of healing. It may be because there is a lack of saliva that can lead to dry mouth, and in turn cause the gums to become dry and itchy. Early stages of gum diseases such as gingivitis, can also cause inflammation, redness, and itching of the gums. Itchy gums after eating is probably because you are allergic to certain foods. But you can always take steps to prevent itchy gums.

What are the symptoms of itchy gums?

The symptoms of itchy gums generally include a persistent urge to scratch or rub the gums, says dental surgeon Dr Sacheev Nanda. Apart from this primary symptom, you may also notice:

• Redness, especially if the itching is due to inflammation or irritation.
• Sensitive to touch while brushing or eating, particularly if the cause is related to gum disease or injury.
• Bleeding gums, especially while brushing or flossing. This is often seen in gum disease or injury-related cases.
• Dryness, particularly if the itching is related to dry mouth or dehydration.
• Pain or discomfort in the affected area.
• Bad breath if the itching is due to an infection or plaque buildup.

What are the causes of itchy gums?

Here are common causes of itchy gums:

1. Gum disease

Gum disease starts with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Gingivitis affects approximately 90 percent of adults, as per a research published in StatPearls in 2023. “This disease can cause itchiness in the gums accompanied by other symptoms like redness. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that can lead to tooth loss,” says Dr Nanda.

2. Allergic reactions

Allergies to certain foods, dental products (like toothpaste or mouthwash), or materials used in dental work (such as latex) can cause an allergic reaction. This reaction may manifest as itching in the gums along with other symptoms like swelling or redness.

3. Dry mouth

Dry mouth or xerostomia happens when the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva and so, there is a lack of moisture. This can cause the gums to become dry and itchy. This condition can be caused by medications or dehydration. About 10 percent of people who used medications like antidepressants, diuretics and antihistamines reported having xerostomia, as per a research published in StatPearls in 2023.

4. Plaque buildup

Sometimes a sticky film of bacteria gets formed on teeth as well as gums known as plaque. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden and become tartar and irritate the gums, causing them to itch and become inflamed. Over time, this can lead to gum disease.

5. Hormonal changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly in women during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause, can affect the gums. “During these stages in a woman’s life, fluctuations in estrogen levels can increase blood flow to the gums, making the gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation and itching,” says the expert. Progesterone levels can also rise during pregnancy, contributing to increased gum sensitivity, swelling, and potential itchiness. Changes in these hormones can lead to a condition known as “pregnancy gingivitis”. About 60 to 75 percent of pregnant women have gingivitis, as per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

6. Infections

Infections in the mouth, such as oral thrush (a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast), bacterial infections, or viral infections like herpes, can cause gum irritation and itching. These infections often come with other symptoms, such as white patches on the gums, pain, or sores.

7. Injury or irritation

Physical trauma to the gums, such as brushing too hard, using a toothbrush with hard bristles, or irritation from dental appliances like braces or dentures, can cause the gums to become irritated and itchy. “The gums may also be more susceptible to itching as they heal from an injury,” says the expert.

8. Tobacco use

Smoking or using other forms of tobacco can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation, itchiness, and an increased risk of gum disease. “Tobacco use also reduces blood flow to the gums, impairs healing, and can exacerbate any existing gum conditions,” says Dr Nanda.

How to treat itchy gums?

Treating itchy gums involves addressing the underlying cause of the irritation. Here’s what to do:

1. Professional dental cleaning

If plaque buildup or early gum disease is causing itchy gums, a professional dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing might miss. This type of dental cleaning helps reduce inflammation and gum irritation.

2. Scaling and root planing

In case of more severe gum disease (periodontitis), a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing may be needed. Tartar is removed from the gum line properly. The procedure also involves smoothing the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach.

3. Antibiotic therapy

If a bacterial infection is causing itchy gums, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics, either in the form of a mouth rinse, gel, or oral medication. This helps to eliminate the infection and reduce gum inflammation. For fungal infections like oral thrush, antifungal medications (oral rinses, lozenges, or pills) are prescribed.

4. Allergy testing and management

If an allergic reaction is suspected, an allergist can perform tests to identify the allergen. “Avoiding the allergen and possibly taking antihistamines or using corticosteroid creams can help manage the symptoms,” says the expert. You may be told to avoid foods and drinks that can irritate your gums, such as those that are too hot, spicy, or acidic.

5. Hormonal treatment

If hormonal changes are causing gum issues, managing those hormones through medical treatment, such as hormone replacement therapy, might help alleviate symptoms. Also, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during these periods.

6. Saltwater rinse

Apart from brushing two times a day, rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that may be causing irritation. Mix less than one teaspoon of salt in a glass full of warm water and swish it around your mouth for half a minute then spit it out.

7. Hydration

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help combat dry mouth, which can cause itchy gums. Staying hydrated can keep your mouth moist and help flush away food particles along with bacteria.

How to prevent itchy gums?

Preventing itchy gums largely involves maintaining good oral hygiene and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Here are some effective strategies –

1. Practice good oral hygiene

Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and food particles that can irritate the gums. Flossing every day is a good way to remove debris and plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line, where a toothbrush might not reach. “Rinsing with an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and prevent gum irritation,” says the expert.

2. Regular dental checkups

Visit your dentist for professional cleanings and checkups at least two times a year to help catch and treat any gum issues before they become something more serious. Address any dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, as soon as they arise to prevent complications like itchy gums.

3. Maintain a healthy diet

A diet rich in vitamin C and calcium is a good way to support gum health. Avoid sugary foods and drinks that can contribute to plaque buildup. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth moist and flush away food particles and bacteria that can irritate your gums.

4. Avoid irritants

“Smoking or any other tobacco product is bad for your oral health, as it can irritate the gums and affect your teeth,” says the expert. Quitting can significantly improve your oral health. Try to limit alcohol consumption, as it can dry out your mouth and then irritate your gums.

5. Protect your gums from injury

A soft-bristled toothbrush is less likely to damage your gums than a hard-bristled one, so use the ones with soft bristles. Also, brush gently to avoid damaging your gums. Wear a mouth guard if you play contact sports so that your gums get protected from injury while playing.

Itchy gums can be due to gum disease or an allergic reaction. You can go for over-the-counter medicines or try home remedies like saltwater rinse. If they do not alleviate your symptoms or if the itching is accompanied by severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or pus, reach out to a dentist.