Painful Gums Symptoms
Symptom Checker: Symptoms & Signs Index
Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Painful gums can be a symptom of gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) or, more likely, periodontitis (inflammation of the attachment fibers of the teeth and supporting bone), which can arise due to a number of different causes. The hormonal changes of pregnancy can also increase the sensitivity of the gums, which may in some cases lead to soreness or pain. Painful gums can also arise due to localized sores on the gums, such as abscesses or aphthous ulcers.
Health concern on your mind? Visit the Symptom Checker.
REFERENCE:
Stephen, James M. "Gingivitis." eMedicine.com. Nov. 23, 2009. <http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/763801-overview>.
Causes of Painful Gums
-
Canker Sores Canker sore is a small ulcer crater in the lining of the mouth. Canker sores are one of the most common problems that occur in...learn more »In This ArticleCanker Sores Article
- Canker sores facts
- What are canker sores?
- What are symptoms of canker sores?
- What are the causes of canker sores?
- Are canker sores the same as fever blisters?
- What steps can be taken to help canker sores?
- What is the treatment for canker sores?
- What kind of topical medications (gels or ointments) are available for canker sores?
- Can mouthwash solutions be used with canker sores?
- What oral medications are available to help canker sores?
- What should I do if I get canker sores frequently?
- What research is being done in the area of canker sores?
-
Gum Disease Gum disease is caused by plaque and may result in tooth loss without proper treatment. Symptoms and signs of gum disease...learn more »In This ArticleGum Disease Article
- Gingivitis introduction
- What's the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
- What causes periodontal disease?
- What are the symptoms and signs of periodontal disease?
- How does my dentist diagnose periodontal disease?
- How is periodontal disease treated?
- How can gingivitis be prevented?
- Is periodontal disease linked to other health problems?
-
Human Immunodeficiency Virus HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the cause of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV is a type of virus called a...learn more »In This ArticleHuman Immunodeficiency Virus Article
- HIV facts
- What is the history of HIV, and when was HIV discovered?
- What tests are used in the diagnosis of HIV?
- How is HIV transmitted (spread)?
- What happens after an exposure to the blood or genital secretions of an HIV-infected person?
- What are HIV symptoms and signs in men, women, and children?
- What laboratory tests are used to monitor HIV-infected people?
- What are the key principles in managing HIV infection?
- Should patients with the flu- or mono-like illness of primary HIV infection be treated?
- What about treatment for HIV during pregnancy?
- What can be done for people who have severe immunosuppression?
- What is the future for HIV-infected individuals with regards to treatment simplification and cure research?
- What is in the future for preventing HIV transmission?
-
Oral Cancer The term oral cancer includes cancer of the mouth (oral cavity) and the back of the mouth (oropharynx). Red and white patches...learn more »In This ArticleOral Cancer Article
- What is the oral cavity?
- What is cancer?
- Who's at risk for oral cancer?
- What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
- How is oral cancer diagnosed?
- How is oral cancer treated?
- Methods of treatment
- What are the side effects of treatment for oral cancer?
- What is rehabilitation for oral cancer?
- What happens after treatment for oral cancer?
- What does the future hold for patients with oral cancer?
- What resources are available to patients with oral cancer?
- Oral Cancer At A Glance
-
Pregnancy (Week By Week, Trimesters) There are many symptoms involved in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. The first early pregnancy symptom is typically...learn more »In This ArticlePregnancy (Week By Week, Trimesters) Article
- Pregnancy facts*
- Introduction
- What is the first trimester (week 1-week 12)?
- What is the second trimester (week 13-week 28)?
- What is the third trimester (week 29-week 40)?
- How will my baby develop week by week?
- What are the changes that happen to a woman's body during her 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy?
- Body aches
- Breast changes
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Fatigue, sleep problems
- Heartburn and indigestion
- Hemorrhoids
- Itching
- Leg cramps
- Morning sickness
- Nasal problems
- Numb or tingling hands
- Stretch marks, skin changes
- Swelling
- Urinary frequency and leaking
- Varicose veins
-
Toothache Toothache usually refers to pain around the teeth or jaws. In most instances, toothaches are caused by tooth or jaw problems,...learn more »In This ArticleToothache Article
- Toothache facts
- What is a toothache?
- What are dental causes of toothaches and how are they treated?
- Dental cavities and dental abscesses
- Gum disease
- Tooth root sensitivities
- Cracked tooth syndrome
- Temporalmandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Impaction and eruption
- What are non-dental causes of toothaches?
- How is toothache during pregnancy managed?
- Are home remedies effective for toothaches?
- Can toothaches be prevented?
Other Causes of Painful Gums
- Abscess
- Bacterial Infection
- Dental or Orthodontic Procedures
- Excessively Hard Toothbrushing
- Malnutrition
- Poorly Fitting Dentures
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Tartar
- Tooth Loss
- Trauma to the Mouth and/or Gums
- Trench Mouth
Examples of Medications for Painful Gums
- acetaminophen, Tylenol and Others
Symptoms & Signs A-Z List
WebMD Oral Health
Get tips for a healthy mouth.










