Healthy gums are important for a beautiful smile and good oral health. However, swollen gums can indicate that something isn’t quite right in your mouth. In this post, we will look at the most prevalent reasons for swollen gums, how to prevent them, and when to seek professional care.
Common Causes of Swollen Gums
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor teeth cleaning can result in plaque buildup, irritating the gums and causing swelling.
- Gum Disease: Gingivitis (early stage) and periodontitis (advanced stage) cause inflammation and swelling of the gums.
- Infections: Bacterial and fungal infections can all cause swollen gums.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can cause gums to become sensitive and swollen.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of vital vitamins, notably vitamin C, can lead to gum disorders.
- Allergic Reactions: Gum inflammation can result from allergies to particular foods, dental products, or dental appliance materials.
Symptoms to Look Out For
- Red, Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink.
- Pain and Tenderness: Having swollen gums can hurt, particularly when brushing or chewing.
- Bleeding Gums: Gums bleeding when you brush or floss are a common symptom.
- Bad Breath: If your foul breath persists, there may be gum disease.
- Receding Gums: Gum disease may be indicated by gums that peel away from the teeth.
- Pus Between Teeth and Gums: This indicates an infection and needs to be treated right once.
Prevention Tips
- Proper Brushing and Flossing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day and floss every day to ensure that plaque is clean from your teeth.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Go to your dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and examinations.
- Balanced Diet: Maintain optimal gum health by having a healthy diet.
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Chewing tobacco and smoking can cause gum damage.
- Stay Hydrated: Getting enough water encourages salivation and helps you maintain a clean mouth.
When to See a Dentist
- Persistent Swelling: When gum swelling lasts longer than a week, it’s considered persistent.
- Severe Pain: A dentist should be seen for any excruciating or ongoing pain.
- Signs of Infection: Severe swelling, pus, or fever are warning indicators of infection that require medical attention right away.
- Other Symptoms: You should talk to your dentist about any other strange symptoms.
Conclusion
Gum swelling is an indication that you should take better care of your dental health. You can manage your gums healthy and avoid swelling by seeing your dentist on a regular basis, eating a balanced diet, and practicing proper dental hygiene. Please look for a dentist to determine the cause and get the appropriate treatment if your gums continue to swell.