Healthy gums should be firm, pink, and comfortable. If your gums are sore, swollen, or inflamed, it’s your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t right. While occasional irritation may not be cause for alarm, persistent gum inflammation should never be ignored. Left untreated, some underlying causes can lead to more serious oral health problems, including gum disease and tooth loss.

Here are 3 common reasons your gums may be sore and inflamed.