Gum Pain and Mouth Sores: When to See a Dentist

Mouth sores and gum pain?

I have a hole in the tissue at the back of my upper right gum.
At first, it only hurt a bit when I ate, but recently the gums above and below that area have also started to hurt.
This hole has been present for about a week.
Why is this happening? Do I need to see a doctor, or should I wait for the hole to heal on its own? Should I see a dentist or an ENT specialist?

En, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/26

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If a gum ulcer has not healed after two weeks, it is important to see a dentist to check for sharp tooth edges that may be causing continuous irritation or other underlying reasons for the non-healing gum.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/08/26

More Info

When it comes to gum pain and mouth sores, it's essential to understand the underlying causes and when to seek professional help. Based on your description, it sounds like you have a sore or ulcer in your gum tissue, which has been causing discomfort, especially when eating. Initially, it was localized to the area of the sore, but now it seems to be affecting the surrounding gums as well.
There are several potential reasons for the pain and the development of a sore in your gums. Common causes include:
1. Infection: Bacterial infections can lead to gum disease, which may cause pain and inflammation. If the sore is due to an infection, it may worsen over time without treatment.

2. Trauma: Sometimes, a cut or sore can develop from trauma, such as biting your cheek or gum, or from dental work. If the area is irritated or not healing properly, it can lead to increased pain.

3. Canker Sores: These are small, painful ulcers that can appear in the mouth and on the gums. They are often triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or certain foods.

4. Dental Issues: Cavities or abscesses in the teeth can also manifest as pain in the gums. If the tooth is decayed or infected, it can lead to gum pain and swelling.

5. Systemic Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can affect oral health and lead to gum problems.

Given that the sore has persisted for about a week and is causing increasing discomfort, it is advisable to see a dentist rather than waiting for it to heal on its own. Dentists are trained to diagnose and treat oral health issues, including gum diseases and infections. They can provide appropriate treatment, which may include:
- Cleaning the Area: A thorough cleaning can help remove any plaque or debris that may be contributing to the irritation.

- Antibiotics: If there is an infection, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help clear it up.

- Topical Treatments: Medications or ointments can be applied to the sore to reduce pain and promote healing.

- Further Evaluation: If the sore is persistent or if there are other concerning symptoms, the dentist may recommend further tests or refer you to a specialist.

As for whether to see a dentist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, it is generally best to start with a dentist for oral issues. They can assess the situation and determine if a referral to an ENT or another specialist is necessary based on their findings.

In summary, while some minor mouth sores can heal on their own, the combination of pain and the duration of your symptoms suggests that professional evaluation is warranted. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. Don't hesitate to make an appointment with your dentist to discuss your symptoms and get the appropriate care.

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