Painful Gums and Oral Sores: When to Seek Dental Care in the US

Q: Painful Gums and Oral Sores: When to Seek Dental Care in the US

Hello： First, I would like to confirm whether you have the habit of smoking or chewing betel nut. <br>If not, based on your description, it may be gingivitis combined with oral thrush, often caused by seasonal changes, excessive stress, or poor oral hygiene leading to decreased i

Experiencing pain and bleeding while brushing your gums, along with small red spots, and a bump on the side of your front teeth with some white lesions on your lip could indicate gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, as well as possible oral lesions or infections. It is advisable to consult a dentist for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment?

I started noticing pain in my gums when brushing my teeth about a week ago, and after brushing, there is bleeding at the junction of my teeth and gums.
There are some red spots on my gums that look like petechiae, and they are slightly swollen.
At the same time, it seems like I have sores (not sure if they are ulcers) under my tongue and on the inside of my lips.
Today, I also discovered some bumps on the inside of my lower lip, and there are many white spots on the inside of my upper lip near my incisors that look like ulcers.
Should I seek medical attention immediately? I am currently studying in the United States and won't return until the end of the year.
Would waiting until then to seek treatment have any consequences? Here is the link to the images: https://imgur.com/a/DvuF7uq

Steven Chang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/17

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: First, I would like to confirm whether you have the habit of smoking or chewing betel nut.
If not, based on your description, it may be gingivitis combined with oral thrush, often caused by seasonal changes, excessive stress, or poor oral hygiene leading to decreased immunity.
I recommend that you enhance your oral hygiene and adjust your lifestyle, paying attention to nutrition.
You may consider using an oral ointment (but do not use it excessively, as it contains steroids) to alleviate symptoms.
Additionally, if the oral lesions do not heal within a month, even if you are abroad, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Chia-Yung, Director of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital.

Reply Date: 2018/10/17

More Info

Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing symptoms that could indicate a serious dental issue. The pain in your gums, bleeding during brushing, and the presence of red spots and swelling suggest that you may have gingivitis or another form of gum disease. The sores or ulcers in your mouth could be a sign of several conditions, including aphthous ulcers (canker sores), oral thrush, or even a viral infection.
In the United States, it is generally recommended to seek dental care if you experience any of the following symptoms:
1. Persistent Pain: If your gum pain continues or worsens, it is essential to see a dentist. Pain can indicate an underlying issue that may require treatment.

2. Bleeding Gums: Bleeding during brushing or flossing is not normal and should be evaluated by a dental professional. This could be a sign of gum disease, which can progress if left untreated.

3. Swelling and Redness: Swollen and red gums are often indicative of inflammation, which can lead to more severe dental issues if not addressed.

4. Sores or Ulcers: The presence of sores in your mouth, especially if they are painful or persistent, warrants a dental visit. While some ulcers can heal on their own, others may require treatment, especially if they are recurrent.

5. Changes in Oral Health: Any new or unusual changes in your oral health, such as the appearance of white spots or lesions, should be assessed by a dentist.

Given that you are currently in the U.S. and experiencing these symptoms, it is advisable to seek dental care as soon as possible rather than waiting until you return home. Delaying treatment could lead to complications, especially if you have an infection or a condition that requires prompt intervention.
In the meantime, here are some self-care tips you can follow to help manage your symptoms until you can see a dentist:
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth.

- Rinse with Salt Water: A warm saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of your gums. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth several times a day.

- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods that may irritate your gums and mouth sores.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and help wash away food particles and bacteria.

- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If you are experiencing significant discomfort, consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to wait until you return home to seek treatment, it is crucial to address these symptoms promptly. Dental issues can escalate quickly, and early intervention can prevent more severe complications. Make an appointment with a local dentist as soon as possible to ensure your oral health is properly managed.

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