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Swollen gums can be more than just a minor irritation. When your gums swell, it’s often a sign that something isn’t quite right with your oral health. You might experience gum pain, redness, or even bleeding while brushing.
Ignoring swollen gums could lead to more serious problems like gum disease, tooth loss, and even infections that affect your entire body.
In this blog, we’ll explore five common causes of swollen gums and explain why this condition should never be ignored.
Swollen gums signal that something’s wrong with your oral health. Ignoring them allows problems like gum disease and tooth loss to develop. Take action by improving your oral care routine and scheduling a dentist visit.
Understanding Swollen Gums
Swollen gums, also known as gingival swelling, occur when the gum tissue becomes irritated, red, and puffy. This can happen for many reasons, from plaque buildup to infections. Your gums are sensitive, so if something is wrong, they will let you know. Most causes of gum swelling can be treated with the right dental care and proper oral hygiene.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If your gums are swollen for more than a few days, or if you notice severe pain, bleeding, or signs of gum disease like bad breath or loose teeth, it’s time to see a dentist. Swollen gums can be a sign of a minor infection or something more serious, like periodontal disease, which can damage the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth.
5 Common Causes of Swollen Gums
Here are the five most common causes of swollen gums and why you should never ignore them.
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It occurs when dental plaque and food particles accumulate along the gumline, leading to gum inflammation. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, this plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums.
Symptoms of gingivitis
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
How to prevent gingivitis
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth twice a day.
- Floss daily to remove food debris.
- Rinse your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings to keep plaque under control.
2. Periodontitis
When gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. This condition damages the gum tissue and bone that hold your teeth in place. Periodontal disease can eventually lead to tooth loss if not treated.
Symptoms of periodontitis
- Receding gums
- Tooth sensitivity
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Gum recession and deep pockets between teeth and gums
Treatment for periodontitis
- Root planing and scaling: A deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from under the gumline.
- Antibiotics to treat gum infections.
- In severe cases, surgery may be required to restore gum health.
3. Pregnancy Gingivitis
Pregnancy gingivitis is a common condition caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy. Increased blood flow to the gums makes them more sensitive and prone to inflammation, even if you have a good oral care routine.
Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis
- Swollen, tender gums
- Gum pain and bleeding
- Increased gum swelling during the second trimester
How to manage pregnancy gingivitis
- Stick to a solid oral care routine: brush with a soft-bristled or an electric toothbrush and floss daily.
- Visit your dental professional regularly for checkups and cleanings.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water to reduce inflammation.
4. Medications
Certain medical treatments and medications can cause swollen gums. Blood pressure medications, immunosuppressants, and anticonvulsants are common culprits. These drugs can increase gum swelling by promoting plaque buildup or affecting your body’s ability to fight off infections.
Medications that affect gum health
- Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin)
- Calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine)
- Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine)
What you can do
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing.
- Inform your dentist about all medications you’re taking.
- Consider switching medications if gum swelling becomes severe—talk to your healthcare provider about alternatives.
5. Ill-Fitting Dentures
Poorly fitting dentures can irritate your gums, causing swelling and even gum infections. When dentures don’t fit properly, they can rub against your gums, leading to sores, inflammation, and even tooth abscesses.
Signs your dentures don’t fit
- Gum irritation or pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Slipping or clicking dentures
- Gum tissue damage
How to fix ill-fitting dentures
- Visit your dentist for an adjustment.
- Practice good oral hygiene by cleaning your dentures regularly.
- Don’t ignore the pain—ill-fitting dentures can cause more serious dental issues over time.
Preventive Tips for Healthy Gums
Caring for your gums is simple if you follow these daily habits:
- Brush your teeth in circular motions.
- Floss between your teeth daily.
- Rinse with antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin C and other healthy foods to strengthen your gums.
- Avoid tobacco products and limit sugary foods, which can lead to tooth decay and gum problems.
Don’t Ignore Swollen Gums!
Swollen gums are often a sign that your mouth needs some extra care. Whether it’s gingivitis, periodontitis, or even ill-fitting dentures, swollen gums can lead to bigger problems if left untreated. If you suspect your gums are swollen or irritated, reach out to your dentist for an evaluation.
At Morris Dental Solutions, we are committed to helping our patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. We offer a wide range of services, from routine cleanings to periodontal treatments and restorative dentistry.
If you are searching for ‘a dentist in Buffalo, Grove, IL’ or a ‘prosthodontist near me’ we can help! Call (847) 215-1511 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.
