Delayed onset muscle soreness, knee sprains and calf cramps are typical pains you think of while running, not gum pain. However, runners with poor dental hygiene or problems grinding their teeth may be experiencing lower jaw pain after their run. Consult with your dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Identification
Observing your lower gums after running may give you clue of what's causing the pain. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease and will cause the gums to appear red and shiny. If you touch the gums, they will feel a little tender and you'll experience bleeding while brushing your teeth. Running will usually not cause pain in the gums from gingivitis, but if gingivitis has advanced into periodontitis, pain may be present. If you have periodontitis, the impact of your foot hitting the ground while running may be causing the teeth to click together and inflame your existing gum disease. If periodontitis is causing the pain, you may be developing new spaces between your teeth, loose teeth, or pus between the teeth and gums. If you have bruxism, you have problems with clenching or grinding your teeth. You may notice your gums are receding and pulling away from the tooth if you've been grinding or clenching your teeth for several years. The gum line will be sensitive.
Cause
The increased blood flow while running travels to your already inflamed gums, which may worsen your pain during and after running. Gingivitis and periodontitis mainly come from poor dental hygiene. Plaque is a sticky substance made from bacteria, acid and food debris that coats your teeth. If plaque is not brushed off, it mineralizes into tartar. Plaque and tartar will irritate your gums if you have gingivitis. If gingivitis is left untreated, pockets develop between your teeth and fill with bacteria, plaque and tartar, causing destruction of the gums and bone. Bruxism is most common at night or during high levels of stress, but the pain from frequent teeth clenching can show in your gums after exercising. Certain medications, such as anti-depressants, can also cause clenching.
Treatment
Gingivitis can usually be treated by a thorough cleaning by your dentist. Once your teeth have been professionally cleaned, it's important to follow the treatment plan outlined by your dentist. Gingivitis will typically heal within one to two weeks. If gingivitis is left untreated, periodontitis is likely to follow, and treatment will be needed to save your teeth. Scaling will remove tartar and bacteria from under your gums, and root planning will smooth the root's surface. Surgery may be necessary for more in-depth scaling and root planning. To treat bruxism, learn stress management techniques or reduce the amount of stress in your life. If your gums have pulled away from your teeth, your dentist will need to thoroughly clean the area to remove bacteria, plaque and tartar. Be aware of your jaw during before, during and after exercise. If you notice your jaw clenching at any time, relax.
Prevention
Gingivitis and periodontitis can be prevented through good oral hygiene. See your dentist at least twice per year. Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush at least twice per day and always floss daily. An electronic toothbrush can help you clean your teeth and gum line more thoroughly. Mouthwash can help removed plaque between your teeth. Talk to your doctor if you experience bruxism from medications. A mouth guard at night and during exercise can keep your jaw rested so you don't clench and experience gum pain after exercising.
