Understanding Gum Skin Peeling
If you have noticed the skin on your gums peeling off after brushing your teeth, you are not alone. Many people experience a sensitivity in their mouth that leads to gum irritation and peeling skin.
What Causes Gum Skin to Peel?
There are a few potential causes for gum skin peeling:
- Using a toothpaste that contains irritating ingredients like menthol, cinnamon flavorings, or sodium lauryl sulfate
- Brushing too aggressively with a hard or worn toothbrush
- Canker sores or viral infections in the mouth
- Periodontal disease which causes gum inflammation and sensitivity
- A vitamin deficiency that makes gum tissue vulnerable
Toothpaste Ingredients That Contribute to Gum Irritation
Certain ingredients commonly found in toothpaste may cause irritation, inflammation, and peeling of delicate gum tissue. These ingredients include:
- Menthol - Added for a cooling sensation, menthol can be very abrasive for some people.
- Cinnamon Oils - Used for flavoring, cinnamon extract can cause a burning feeling.
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) - A foaming agent, SLS may remove layers of skin cells.
- Alcohol - Included in some whitening toothpastes, alcohol can dry out and erode gum skin.
Brushing Too Aggressively Damages Gums
Brushing vigorously with a stiff toothbrush or abrading gums horizontally can lead to sensitive, irritated gums. This abrasion damages the protective outer layer of gum tissue, causing skin peeling and discomfort.
Look for these signs you may be brushing too aggressively:
- Bleeding gums when brushing
- Receding gum lines over time
- Toothbrush bristles become frayed or bent
- Skin inside mouth appears red and inflamed
Treating and Preventing Gum Skin Peeling
If your mouth is sensitive and gum skin tends to peel, there are ways to treat and prevent further irritation:
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Switching to a soft or extra-soft bristle toothbrush protects delicate gum tissue from abrasion. Brush gently using light pressure in a circular motion to clean teeth without damaging gums.
Try a Sensitive Toothpaste
Sensitive toothpaste formulas avoid harsh ingredients like SLS and alcohol that can erode and irritate gum skin. Soothing, gentle ingredients like aloe vera may help gum tissue heal.
Gently Massage Inflamed Gums
Gently massaging gums stimulate circulation to bring blood flow to damaged tissue. Increased blood flow aids healing and reduces sensitivity.
Rinse with Saltwater
Swishing saltwater helps reduce gum inflammation, irritation and pain. The salt also acts as an antiseptic to prevent infection in damaged gum skin.
Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash
Mouthwash containing antiseptic ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride can alleviate gum sensitivity and prevent infection while mouth skin heals.
Apply Aloe Vera Gel
Pure aloe vera gel has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties to help sensitive gums recover. Apply directly to inflamed areas to ease discomfort.
Take Vitamins
If gum problems result from nutritional deficiency, supplements can help. Vitamins C, A, and E support healthy gum skin and tissue repair.
When to See a Dentist for Gum Skin Peeling
While the above home remedies may alleviate mild gum irritation, schedule a dental visit if you experience:
- Bleeding, soreness or redness persisting longer than 2 weeks
- Receding, pulling away gum lines
- White, ulcer-like sores inside the mouth
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold food/drink
These may indicate a more serious issue like infection or periodontal disease. Your dentist can evaluate, diagnose and properly treat the underlying cause.
Preventing Further Gum Damage
Once any infection has cleared, maintain good oral hygiene to prevent recurrence of gum skin peeling. Be sure to:
- Brush properly twice daily
- Floss once daily
- Use enamel-safe toothpaste for sensitive teeth
- Replace toothbrush every 3 months
- Schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups
Proper brushing and flossing removes bacteria-harboring plaque that causes gum irritation and inflammation. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and treatment of any issues.
Consider Periodontal Surgery
For recurring cases of serious gum damage, periodontal surgery may be warranted. Procedures can remove infection and debris from gum tissue, smooth damaged bone, and graft tissue to help gums reattach to teeth.
Though recovery takes several weeks, addressing significant gum disease strengthens overall oral health and comfort long term.
FAQs
Why does my gum skin peel after I brush my teeth?
The most common causes of gum skin peeling after brushing are using a toothpaste with irritating ingredients, brushing too vigorously with a hard toothbrush, or having gum inflammation/disease. Ingredients like menthol, cinnamon extract, SLS, and alcohol can erode delicate gum tissue. Brushing aggressively can also wear away and damage the thin skin.
How can I prevent my gum skin from peeling?
To prevent further gum skin damage, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently in a circular motion. Switch to a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth that is free of harsh ingredients. Take care not to brush too aggressively - if you see bleeding or receding gums, adopt a gentler brushing method.
What home remedies soothe irritated, peeling gums?
Gentle saltwater rinses, aloe vera gel, massaging inflamed gums, using antiseptic mouthwash, and taking vitamin C & E supplements can all help soothe gum irritation and discomfort from peeling skin. These remedies help gums heal while keeping the area clean to prevent infection.
When should I see my dentist about peeling gum skin?
Make an appointment with your dentist if the gum skin peeling persists longer than 2 weeks or is accompanied by bleeding, soreness, gum recession. These may indicate gum disease or infection which needs professional treatment. Addressing underlying issues helps get to the root of gum problems.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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