Swollen gums, or gingivitis, can be uncomfortable, painful and sometimes a sign of a more serious dental issue. Many people experience red, puffy gums at some point in their lives, and while occasional irritation may not be a cause for concern, persistent swelling should never be ignored. Healthy gums should be firm, pink and fir snuggly around your teeth. When they become inflamed, they may bleed when brushing, feel tender or even cause bad breath.
In some cases, swollen gums can even indicate an infection or early stages of gum disease. In this article, we will explore what causes gum swelling, how you can treat swollen gums at home, when it might be time to seek help from a dentist and more. By understanding the causes and treatments, you can take proactive steps to maintain strong, healthy gums.
What causes swollen gums?
There are several reasons why gums may become red, swollen and painful. Some causes are more minor and may not actually cause any pain or discomfort, and as such can be treated at home. However, other causes of red, swollen gums may require professional dental care.
Gingivitis – The first stage of gum disease
One of the most common causes of swollen gums is gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis occurs when plaque builds up along the gumline, leading to irritation, swelling and bleeding gums even without brushing. Some of the symptoms of gingivitis includes:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Mild gum tenderness
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis which is a more severe form of gum disease that can cause permanent damage to the gum tissue and bone.
Poor oral hygiene and plaque build-up
Even if gingivitis has yet to develop, failing to brush your teeth or floss properly can allow bacteria to build-up, irritating gums and leading to inflammation. Poor oral hygiene is ne of the leading causes of swollen gums around a tooth.
Gum infection (periodontitis)
Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease that occurs when plaque hardens into tartar beneath the gums, causing infection and gum recession. Unlike, gingivitis, periodontitis can lead to permanent damage including tooth loss.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal fluctuations can increase blood flow to the gums, making them more sensitive and prone to swelling. Pregnant women are especially at risk of pregnancy gingivitis due to the significant hormonal changes taking place.
Vitamin deficiencies and poor diet
A lack of essential nutrients due to a poor diet, especially Vitamin C, can lead to gum inflammation. In extreme cases, a Vitamin C deficiency can lead to conditions such as scurvy, which will led to severely weakened gums and teeth.
Certain medications
Certain medications, including blood pressure drugs, immunosuppressants and anti-seizure medications, can cause gum overgrowth or swelling. If you are wondering what medicine to take for swollen gums, over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen can help, but it’s crucial to address the underlying cause.
How to treat swollen gums at home
If you’re experiencing mild gum inflammation, you’ll be relieved to know that there are simple and effective ways to manage it from the comfort of your home. With the right approach, you can soothe irritation, reduce swelling and promote overall gum health without the need for immediate professional help.
- Good oral hygiene practice – Brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily and using an antibacterial mouthwash can all help to remove plaque and bacteria build-ups which cause red and swollen gums.
- Saltwater rinse – A saltwater rinse can help reduce bacteria and soothe swollen gums, due to its natural disinfection properties.
- Hydrogen peroxide rinse – Hydrogen peroxide is a mild antiseptic that can help kill bacteria when used daily.
- Cold compress – Like with any swelling on your body, a cold compress can be applied to help reduce swelling. Wrap ice in a cloth and hold against the outside of your mouth.
- Herbal and natural remedies – Herbal ingredients like aloe vera, turmeric paste and tea tree oil can be used effectively due to their natural, anti-inflammatory properties.
When to see a dentist about gum inflammation
If swelling persists for more than two weeks, or if you experience severe pain, bleeding, or pus, it’s a clear indication that something more serious may be happening beneath the surface. Persistent inflammation could mean an ongoing infection, advanced gum disease, or even an abscess that requires professional treatment.
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening pain, gum recession and in severe cases, tooth loss. Additionally, if you notice your gums pulling away from your teeth, difficulty chewing or a persistent bad taste in your mouth, these could be signs of periodontitis, which needs immediate attention. Seeing a dentist as soon as possible can prevent complications and help restore your gum health before the condition progresses.
How can dentists treat swollen gums and gingivitis
If home remedies and improved oral hygiene do not resolve your gum swelling, an appointment with your dentist can provide you with the professional treatment you need to address the root cause. Treatment will depend on the severity of the condition, ranging from a deep examination and airflow polishing to more advanced treatment procedures.
Professional cleaning and scaling
For mild to moderate gum swelling caused by plaque and tartar buildup, a dentist will perform a professional cleaning to remove bacteria and hardened deposits.
- Scaling: This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and below the gumline.
- Root planing: If there are deeper pockets of bacteria, root planing smooths the tooth roots to prevent further bacterial accumulation and help the gums reattach.
Regular professional cleanings every six months can help prevent future gum inflammation and reduce the risk of gum disease progression.
Antibacterial rinses and prescriptions
In cases of gingivitis or mild gum infections, dentists may recommend stronger treatments and medications to eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Antibacterial mouthwashes: Prescription-strength rinses containing chlorhexidine or other antiseptic agents help control bacterial growth.
- Antibiotics: If an infection is present, dentists may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics in gel, mouthwash, or tablet form.
- Medicated toothpaste: Specialised toothpaste with anti-inflammatory properties can also help reduce symptoms.
If you’re wondering how do dentists cure gingivitis, the best approach is a combination of professional cleaning and an improved oral care routine to prevent bacteria from building up again.
Gum surgery for advanced periodontal disease
If gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, where gums recede and infection spreads, surgical intervention may be required.
- Flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery): The gums are lifted back to remove deep tartar deposits, and then sutured back into place to fit more snugly around the teeth.
- Gum grafting: If gum recession has occurred, a dentist may take healthy gum tissue from another part of the mouth and graft it onto the affected area to cover exposed tooth roots.
- Laser therapy: Some modern dental practices use laser treatments to remove infected tissue and encourage gum regeneration with minimal discomfort.
These procedures help restore gum health, prevent further damage, and reduce the risk of tooth loss.
Conclusion
Swollen, red gums are often a sign of underlying oral issues, from minor irritation to serious gum disease. While home remedies can help in mild cases, persistent swelling should be examined by a dentist. If you’re suffering from gum irritation, book a dental appointment at Grosvenor Dental Practice today – our team will help keep your gums strong, healthy and pain-free.
