Gum sensitivity is an increased sensation of discomfort and pain in the gums due to inflammation of the soft tissues that cover the tooth. This corresponds specifically with the symptoms of gingivitis, which is an infection of the gums that causes irritation, redness, and inflammation of the gums.
The main cause of gingivitis, and thus the appearance of sensitive gums, is poor oral hygiene, which favors the accumulation of tartar and the formation of dental plaque under the gum tissue surrounding the teeth.
The longer dental plaque remains on the teeth, the more gum infection will develop. Over time, gingivitis presents with inflammation and bleeding, and can lead to periodontitis, one of the main causes of tooth loss in the patient.
