Unless there is a medical explanation, sensitive gums can usually be attributed to poor dental care and oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing the teeth regularly is important but many people fail to do these tasks correctly and make basic mistakes. The most common of these are:
– Using a hard-bristled toothbrush
– Cutting the gums while flossing
– Brushing and flossing aggressively
The gums are delicate and need to be treated gently to avoid damage. Your dentist can offer advice on how to brush and floss correctly in order to “protect your gums and tooth enamel from damage” and avoid sensitive gums and gum disease. Further information can be found at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/gumsensitivity/.
Matthew Houlton BDS(Sheffield) MFGDP(UK)I’m Matthew Houlton, principal dentist and practice owner of Manor House Dental Practice.
Qualified from Sheffield dental hospital in 1993.
Post graduate training with Paul Tipton (Specialist Prosthodontist) from 2005-2007.
Diploma for Membership of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) 2007.
Special interest in Orthodontics.
Yorkshire Deanary Fixed Appliance Training Scheme 2002-2004.
I have worked at York Hospital’s orthodontic department one session a week since 2009.
Member of the British Society of Occlusal Studies (the study of temporomandibular disorder).
I have two children, who keep me busy when I am not at the practice. I take a keen interest in and teach Aikido, a martial art, to keep a healthy mind and body.
