Gum pain in the back of your mouth is a common and uncomfortable experience, often signaling various underlying issues. While some causes are minor, others indicate a more significant problem requiring attention. Understanding these potential reasons is an important step toward finding relief and maintaining oral health.
Common Reasons for Pain
Pain in the back of the gums frequently stems from wisdom teeth, the last molars to emerge, typically between the late teens and early twenties. As these teeth erupt, they can cause pressure, pain, and sensitivity in the surrounding gum tissue and jaw. If a wisdom tooth partially emerges or grows at an angle, it can become impacted, leading to chronic discomfort or infection.
Pericoronitis, an inflammation and infection of the gum flap covering a partially erupted tooth, is a common condition. Food particles and bacteria can get trapped under this flap, creating an environment for infection. Symptoms include severe pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes pus discharge, making it difficult to open the mouth or swallow.
Gum disease, known as periodontal disease, also contributes to pain. Gingivitis, the initial stage, involves inflammation, redness, and bleeding of the gums, often caused by plaque buildup. If left unaddressed, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe infection that can lead to bone loss and potential tooth mobility.
Physical irritation or trauma can also cause localized gum pain. This includes aggressive brushing, which can damage delicate gum tissue. Cuts from sharp foods, burns from hot items, or ill-fitting dental appliances like partial dentures or retainers can also cause irritation and discomfort.
Less common causes include dental abscesses, localized pockets of pus from bacterial infections. These cause intense, throbbing pain that may spread to the jaw or ear, along with swelling and a bad taste. Canker sores, small painful ulcers, can also develop on the gums, contributing to localized tenderness. Referred pain from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues or teeth grinding (bruxism) can also manifest as gum pain. Bruxism places excessive force on teeth and supporting structures, potentially leading to tenderness, inflammation, or gum recession.
When to See a Dentist
Persistent gum pain lasting more than a few days warrants a professional dental evaluation. Seek immediate dental care if pain is accompanied by severe swelling, difficulty swallowing, or trouble breathing, as these could indicate a spreading infection. Other red-flag symptoms include fever, pus discharge, a foul taste, or pain that significantly interferes with eating or sleeping. Bleeding gums that do not stop or visibly swollen gums also signal a need for prompt dental assessment. While temporary relief measures provide comfort, they do not address the underlying cause.
Relieving Discomfort and Prevention
For temporary relief, warm salt water rinses can reduce inflammation and cleanse the area. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help manage pain and reduce swelling. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek can alleviate swelling and numb the pain. Eating soft foods and avoiding chewing on the painful side can also provide comfort while waiting for a professional diagnosis.
Preventing future gum pain involves consistent oral hygiene. Brush teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and food particles without irritating the gums. Daily flossing is equally important to clean areas between teeth and under the gumline. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, typically every six months, are essential for early detection and removal of plaque and tartar. Avoiding tobacco products and managing stress, especially if teeth grinding is an issue, also contribute to maintaining healthy gums and preventing pain.