How to brush an irritated area

After irritating the gumline above a tooth during brushing, what is the proper way to brush that tooth in the future (next few days or so) to allow the gums to heal.  Should the having the bristles come in contact with the gums be avoided?

[Jerome Bogin, D.D.S.]

I would try to avoid that area until it heals . I would also be interested in finding out why that area has become irritated and if it is a chronic problem what can be done about it.

[mike1105]

you should always use a soft bristle toothbrush. rinse for a few days w warm salt water 3 x per day. brush very gently in that area. a simple irritation should heal fine.