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sore gums

Sore gums

Why are my gums sore all of a sudden?

Inflammation of the gums can be caused by gum disease, also known as gingivitis. This is usually caused by the build-up of plaque on your teeth. Gum disease can make your gums bleed when you brush/floss. This is a sign from your gums that you need to improve your oral hygiene, often people are worried when their gums bleed, so reduce their brushing and flossing. This is not the right thing to do. Some medical conditions can cause gums to become more sensitive, this is often seen in pregnancy but can also be a sign of more serious illness, such as leukaemia. Do not ignore sore or bleeding gums.

How long does it take for inflamed gums to heal?

With good oral hygiene, it can take 10-14 days for inflamed gums to heal and in serious cases even longer. Your hygienist will be able to advise you on this and also how frequently you may require treatment to manage any gum disease you may have.

Will sore gums go away?

This depends on the cause of the soreness. It’s important to see a hygienist regularly, who will check your gum health and give you guidance on any areas that need some extra attention.

Why do I have throbbing pain in my gums?

The most common reason people experience sore gums is due to a build-up of plaque, causing gum disease. Gum disease can cause discomfort, throbbing teeth, bleeding gums and sensitivity.

Why do my gums hurt in one spot?

Gums may have one sore spot, this can be because you’ve eaten hard or sharp food, a gum abscess, or from an infection trapped within the gums. Food that is trapped between teeth can also put pressure on the gums, causing pain if not removed. If you are concerned, please seek professional advice. Early intervention can often prevent more serious problems from developing.

Is it my gum or tooth that hurts?

Sometimes, the pain you feel in your mouth can feel like it’s coming from your tooth but it can actually be your gum. This could be caused by gum disease, brushing too hard, flossing incorrectly, an abscess or even oral cancer. Hormonal changes can also cause gum pain for women. Careful investigation can usually establish the cause of the problem and allow it to be treated quickly.

If you are concerned about your gum health, you can book an appointment with our hygienists, even if you aren’t a registered patient here at Evolve. Just call us on 01275 842 550.

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🦷 Did you know your oral health affects your whole body?

Your mouth doesn’t exist in isolation. Gum health, inflammation and oral hygiene can all play a role in your wider wellbeing – from heart health to confidence and mental wellness.

We’ve just published a new blog exploring the link between oral health and overall wellness, and why looking after your teeth and gums is about much more than your smile.

If you’re interested in oral health and general health Portishead, this is a great read and a helpful reminder of how small daily habits can support long-term health.

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When is root canal treatment needed?

It’s a question many patients ask — and in this video, Richard explains it clearly and simply.

Root canal treatment is usually needed when the nerve inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen because of deep decay, a crack in the tooth, repeated dental work, or sometimes after an injury.

You might experience symptoms like persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers, pain when biting, or swelling around the gum. However, sometimes there are very few symptoms at all — which is why regular check-ups at the practice are so important.

The good news is that root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. It removes the infection, saves the natural tooth, and helps you avoid extraction.

Watch Richard’s video to understand the signs to look out for — and if you’re worried about a tooth, get in touch with our reception team for advice.
Smile Hack 🍎🥕

Love a sweet treat? Jane shares a simple swap that your teeth will thank you for.

Sticky sweets cling to your teeth and sit in the tiny grooves for longer, feeding the bacteria that cause decay. The longer they stick around, the more damage they can do.

Instead, try swapping them for crunchy veg or a handful of nuts. Foods like carrots, cucumber and peppers have a natural crunch that helps stimulate saliva, which protects your teeth. Nuts are also a lower-sugar option and far less likely to cling to enamel.

Small changes really do make a big difference over time.
Are electric toothbrushes better than manual?

It’s a question we’re asked a lot at the practice – and in this video, Carol gives a clear, honest answer.

Electric toothbrushes can make it easier to clean effectively, especially if you struggle with technique, brushing for long enough, or reaching certain areas. Many people find they remove plaque more consistently, simply because they do most of the work for you.

That said, a manual toothbrush can still do a great job when used properly. It’s less about the brush itself and more about how you use it.

Watch Carol’s quick explanation to find out what we usually recommend – and how to make sure you’re getting the most from your brushing routine.

If you’re unsure whether your brushing technique is working for you, mention it at your next appointment and we’ll be happy to guide you. 🪥
Our Gromits have become quite the local celebrities here at Evolve 🐾💛

So many of you pop into our patient lounge just to see the collection, and we love how much joy they bring to patients of all ages.

At the moment, two of our Gromits seem to have wandered off on an adventure! We’re hoping they simply need a little help finding their way home.

If you happen to spot them locally or see anything that looks like part of our collection being sold, we’d really appreciate you letting us know. You can message us privately or call the practice.

They’re part of what makes Evolve feel like Evolve — and we’d love to have the whole family back together again.

Thank you for always looking out for us 💛

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😴 Can snoring affect your oral health?

In our latest Two Thirty video, Maggie answers a question many people don’t think to ask — can snoring impact your teeth and gums?

The short answer is yes, it can.

Snoring is often linked to breathing through your mouth at night, which can cause a dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in protecting your teeth, so when your mouth is dry, you may be more prone to tooth decay and bad breath.

If you snore and have noticed dryness, increased decay or concerns about your breath, it’s worth mentioning at your next appointment.

Our reception team at Evolve Dentistry in Portishead will be happy to arrange a consultation if you’d like advice.
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