No pain shows quite like that which is concentrated orally. Anyone who has suffered through the throes of wisdom tooth horrors before removal, painful ulcers or even braces will understand the highly unique nature of such pain, and how it forces us to bear a permanent frown no matter the occasion.
Gum pain is one such ailment that causes extreme, frustrating sensitivity—but it can also be relatively easily healed without the need for a visit to the dentist. We sought advice from Dr Karen Man, Chief Dental Officer at SmileGrove Dental, for some expert insight into how to heal your gums.
What causes gum damage?
“Gum damage often begins with plaque,” says Dr Karen Man. “This is a film of bacteria that forms on teeth and along the gumline. If not removed through proper brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, irritating and inflaming the gums. Over time, this can lead to gingivitis or even more serious conditions. Factors such as smoking, certain medications, and genetic predispositions can also compromise the integrity of the gums.”
What is the best way to prevent gum damage?
“Prevention hinges on a meticulous oral hygiene routine,” Dr Man explains. “Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled brush, flossing every day, and using an antibacterial mouth rinse are key steps. Regular dental examinations and professional cleans are essential too. It’s also important to maintain a balanced diet, stay well-hydrated, and avoid tobacco. Together, these measures can significantly reduce your risk of gum damage.”
How can certain toothpastes help promote gum repair? Are there any formulations you recommend?
“Toothpaste formulated with fluoride and antibacterial agents can help reduce plaque and target the bacteria responsible for gum issues,” notes Dr Man. “These ingredients have been widely studied, and substantial evidence supports their role in improving gum health. When selecting a toothpaste, look for one carrying an authoritative dental association’s seal of approval. Such endorsements indicate that the product’s effectiveness is backed by credible research.”
What are some other ways to help promote gum repair?
“Beyond choosing the right toothpaste, your brushing technique matters,” Dr Man advises. “Use gentle, circular strokes with a soft-bristled brush to avoid aggravating the gums. An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce harmful bacteria, while a diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports your body’s natural healing processes. Reducing stress and ensuring proper rest can also help, as a strong immune system plays a vital role in recovery. In certain cases, professional treatments—such as deep cleaning below the gumline—may be necessary.”
When should you consult a dentist about painful gums?
“If your gums remain painful or inflamed despite careful oral care, or if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or recession, you should see a dentist promptly,” says Dr Man. “Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating, allowing for tailored treatments that help restore comfort and ensure a healthy smile.”
With Dr Man’s advice in mind, we’ve curated a selection of the best toothpaste for gum repair for a pain-free, healthy and happy smile.
Shop now
Sensodyne Rapid Relief Original Toothpaste
By far the most widely recommended toothpaste by dentists for overall oral the classic, Sensodyne Rapid Relief Original Toothpaste. It’s also recommended by the Gum Disease Guide thanks to the fact that the active ingredient is stannous fluoride so it will help protect your gums from further gum recession.
Proven to relieve sensitivity in just 60 seconds, the toothpaste builds ongoing protection from the pain of sensitive teeth while helping to whiten enamel and prevent tooth staining. If you stop using the toothpaste, the barrier it forms will eventually dissipate – so remember to keep brushing.
Buy now £5.00, Boots
Corsodyl Ultra Clean Toothpaste for Gum Care
Suitable for daily use and four times more effective than bog-standard toothpaste, Corsodyl’s Ultra Clean Toothpaste Corsodyl is powered by fluoride and is clinically proven to help stop and prevent bleeding gums.
While it doesn’t have the most pleasant taste in the world, it certainly works – and we’re big fans of the toothpaste as well as Corsodyl’s highly effective gum disease mouthwash.
Buy now £3.97, Amazon
SuperTeeth Prebiotic Mineral Toothpaste – Mint
Fortified with naturally derived hydroxyapatite, prebiotics and CoQ10, SuperTeeth’s Prebiotic Toothpaste is an alternative for those with an aversion to fluoride.
Hydroxyapatite makes up 97 per cent of tooth enamel, so this toothpaste has been formulated to strengthen and safeguard teeth and introduce healthy bacteria into the oral microbiome to reduce inflammation, improve breath and support overall health.
Buy now £11.54, Healf
Spotlight Oral Care Gum + Cavity Protection Professional Toothpaste
Vegan and cruelty-free, this brilliant dual-action toothpaste by Spotlight Oral Care combines sodium fluoride with zinc lactate to reduce bad breath and promote the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums.
Specially formulated for gum disease prevention, its active ingredients work to strengthen enamel and provide protection against cavities to deliver an all-round healthy smile.
Buy now £7.95, Beauty Bay
Colgate Sensitive Instant Relief Repair + Gum Care Toothpaste
An affordable fan-favourite for a reason, Colgate’s Sensitive Instant Relief Repair truly does what it says on the tin. For particularly sore gums, Colgate suggests applying a small amount of toothpaste directly to the sensitive tooth with a fingertip and massaging gently for one minute up to twice a day, and for children 6-12 years once a week or less frequently.
Buy now £2.99, Amazon
Oral-B Gum & Enamel Original Toothpaste
Providing antibacterial action, defence against acid erosion and protection against sensitive relief, Oral-B’s Gum & Enamel Toothpaste is a solid choice for those suffering from sensitivity and gum pain – especially thanks to its mild flavour and smooth texture.
Buy now £2.50, Boots
vVARDIS Oral Care
If you’ve been keeping up to date with the latest oral care trends, you may have noticed a huge shift in recent years to more luxurious products replacing your drugstore stalwarts. vVardis is one such brand here to upgrade your hygiene routine for the better.
The Switzerland-made, science-backed range uses patented technology and signature WX formula to strengthen, repair and whiten teeth. In chic, minimalistic packaging, you’ll find the brush on gel Alestsch (£118) to instantly whiten teeth, Edelweiss toothpaste (£23), Weissbad mouthwash (£20) and the Rheinholz toothbrush (£15 for two)
All the products are vegan and sustainable too.
Buy now £20.00, vVARDIS
ZING Starter Pack
If you’re in the market for healthier and whiter teeth - and want to shake up your morning routine with a new delicious flavour in the meantime - look no further than ZING, a toothpaste that offers both style and substance in one cheerfully designed, toxin-free package.
First and foremost, founder Jacques Cockell wanted to create a product that was healthier for your mouth, eliminating titanium dioxide, a suspected carcinogen that’s commonly found in supermarket toothpaste, and SLS, a foaming agent that can cause mouth ulcers.
Taking it a step further, he introduced hydroxyapatite to remineralise enamel and reduce sensitivity, papain, an enzyme that will whiten the teeth in just a few weeks, and a menu of three delicious flavours - peach, lemon and apple and kiwi. If, however, you’re a staunch believer that the only flavour needed pre-9AM is mint, the brand offers a version of the classic, as well. The taste across the board is subtle so there’s no overwhelming hit as soon as you wake up but if you live by the motto that the mintier, the better, you may want to follow with mouthwash.
The good news? This starter pack includes all four.
Buy now £35.99, ZING
