Itchy gums can be caused by a variety of things, including periodontal disease. Sometimes allergies, taking certain medications, bruxism, or injury to the mouth may cause itching of the gums. Treatment usually includes treating the underlying condition.
One of the most common causes of itchy gums is periodontal disease, primarily gingivitis. Itching can be accompanied by gum soreness, receding gum line, foul breath, and bleeding gums. Most gum diseases are caused by bacteria, and treatment usually involves using medicated mouthwash and toothpaste. These work to kill the bacteria which cause gingivitis and by removing plaque from the teeth and gums.
Sometimes bruxism causes itchy gums if injury is done to the teeth or if receding of the gums occurs. Bruxism is a condition in which one grinds the teeth or clenches the jaw. This can eventually lead to gum and tooth damage by grinding away at the tooth enamel and causing the gums to recede away from the teeth. This condition can be treated by using a specialized mouth guard which prevents grinding from occurring.
Injury to the mouth may also cause itchy gums, especially on injuries involving an open wound. Sometimes as cuts or lesions heal itching can occur. Most wounds to the gums heal on their own, although sometimes medicated mouthwash may be used to speed up the process.
In some cases, medications used to treat other conditions may cause itchy gums as a side effect. This is not common, and many times these effects will subside on their own once the body adjusts to the new medication. If not, another drug may be used or the dosage may need to be changed. Other symptoms related to the gums may also be present, since itching is often caused by irritation to the gums.
Itchy gums should always be reported to a dentist or another oral health professional. This is especially true if itching in the gums is accompanied by bleeding, recession of the gum line, soreness or frequent irritation. These are all indications of gum disease, which is a serious health condition. When left untreated, gum disease can result in loss of the teeth and infection. Poor oral health has also been linked to heart disease and other complications.
Most conditions which cause itchy gums can be successfully treated. Very rarely, gum itching can be the sign of an underlying health condition. If no gum problems are uncovered, additional testing may be needed to determine the cause of itching.
