Your smile is an important part of you; not only is it your most prominent feature and a huge asset when it comes to navigating social situations, but it’s also an important contributor to your overall health. That said, if you’ve recently noticed that your gums have become swollen, you might not be sure if it’s a big enough deal to warrant a trip to your dentist’s office. Here are some of the potential causes of swollen gums and how the issue can be handled.
Potential Causes of Swollen Gums
In many cases, swollen gums result from poor oral hygiene; when you fail to brush and floss diligently, food debris and bacteria are given the opportunity to remain lingering not just on your teeth, but also between them and beneath the gum line. This can lead to gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease that causes your gums to become irritated and swollen. However, if given the chance to progress, it can lead to serious problems including periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease, as well as possible total tooth loss.
Another possible cause for swollen gums includes pregnancy. The rush of hormones that occurs during pregnancy may increase blood flow in the gums, causing irritation. These hormonal changes can also cause your body to have difficulty fighting off bacteria that typically cause gum infections. Being deficient in vitamins, especially vitamins B and C, can also cause gum swelling.
How Dentists Treat Swollen Gums
If your gums are swollen for more than 2 weeks, you should see your dentist for treatment. Once they’re able to determine the causes of the inflammation, they can move forward with addressing the issue. Depending on the case, you might be prescribed oral rinses that help prevent gingivitis and reduce plaque. Antibiotics of specialty toothpaste can also be used, and other options include scaling and root planing, or even surgery in severe cases.
Treating Swollen Gums at Home
There are also things you can do to alleviate inflamed gums at home. Consider the following tips:
- Soothe your gums by brushing and flossing gently.
- Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution.
- Drink plenty of water to stimulate your natural flow of saliva.
- Avoid irritants such as strong mouthwashes, alcohol, and tobacco.
- A warm compress over your face can lessen gum pain. A cold compress can help to decrease swelling.
Of course, you can always prevent your gums from becoming swollen in the first place by practicing excellent and consistent oral hygiene!
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Y. Howard has served patients in the Rancho Bernardo area for several years. Dr. Howard received his dental degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry and his practice is pleased to offer a wide range of comprehensive treatments. If you have any questions about the article or have concerns about swollen gums, feel free to contact him today to schedule an appointment. Telephone: (760) 599-6559.