If your gums itch, your mind my be racing with questions. You may wonder why your gums itch, how to stop the itchy and whether or not you should see a dentist for this issue. Here are a few of the questions you may have about itchy gums and the answers. 

Why Do Your Gums Itch? 

Your gums may itch for a variety of reasons. The top reason why your gums may itch is because you have eaten a food that has irritated them. Some people may have itchy gums if they eat spicy foods, while others may have itchy gums from eating raw fruits or vegetables. Stress can also cause your gums to itch, as can fungal infections, bacterial infections, early periodontal disease and allergies. 

How Can You Stop the Itching? 

If your gums are itchy, you do not want to scratch them. Your gum tissue is sensitive and can easily become damaged. The best way to stop the itching is to dissolve a small amount of table salt in a small glass of warm water and to then swish the salt water around in your mouth. Salt water kills germs and removes any particles that may be stuck on your teeth. If your gums are scratched or raw, salt may sting a bit. However it helps prevent infection and kill germs, so it is best. If you cannot stand the salt rinse or do not have any salt available, rinsing with cool water may be enough to help curb the itching. 

When Should You See a Dentist for Itchy Gums?

If your gums itch one night, it is safe to assume that you ate something that irritated your gums. However, if the problem has been going on for five days or longer, you will want to see a dentist. Waiting five days allows your body the opportunity to kill minor bacterial infections on its own or to calm down after eating a food that may have caused an allergy reaction in the gum area. At this point, there is a good chance you have a fungal infection, bacterial infection your body cannot shake on its own, or early warning signs of gum disease.  

Itchy gums can be caused for a multitude of reasons. If the problem does not go away or occurs over and over, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist to be treated for this condition. If you fail to do so, your gums may become inflamed, red or raw, in addition to the ongoing discomfort you feel. Click here for more information.