• Swollen gums can be painful and uncomfortable and have many potential causes.
• Common causes of swollen gums include gum disease, excessive brushing, hormonal changes, and allergies.
• Symptoms of swollen gums include pain when eating or drinking, redness, bad breath, receding gums, bleeding during brushing, and loose teeth.
• To prevent swollen gums, eat a balanced diet, avoid sugary foods and drinks, quit smoking, reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups.
• With proper care and treatment, swollen gums can be managed to help keep them healthy.
Swollen gums are a common dental issue, and there are many potential causes. Whether your gums are inflamed or swollen, it can be painful and uncomfortable. It’s essential to identify the cause of your swollen gums so you can take the necessary steps to treat them. Here are some reasons why gums swell, what symptoms may accompany gum swelling, and how you can treat them.
Reasons Why Your Gums Are Swelling
People experience swollen gums at some point in their lives. However, once this happens for long periods, it becomes a problem. Here are the most common reasons why your gums are swelling.
Gum Disease
Gum is an infection caused by bacteria forming plaque on the teeth. This plaque can irritate and inflame the gums, leading to swelling and redness. Gum disease can also cause tooth loss if left untreated.
If you notice swollen or red gums, it may be a sign of gum disease. See your dentist as soon as possible if you think you have gum disease so that it can be treated before any permanent damage is done.
Additionally, if you have gaps in your teeth, you must get them replaced immediately. Robust dental implants can help reduce gum disease risk, as they cover your gums from bacterial infection. They are made of titanium and are designed to be as strong as your natural teeth.
Brushing Too Hard
It may seem counterintuitive, but brushing too hard can cause swollen gums. Brushing with too much force can irritate the delicate gum tissue, causing swelling and pain.
If you suspect you’re brushing too hard, use a softer toothbrush, and be sure to use gentle, circular motions.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes during puberty or pregnancy can also cause your gums to become swollen and sensitive. During puberty, hormones like estrogen and testosterone cause the body to produce more oil than usual, increasing plaque formation on teeth and around gums. The increased levels of progesterone during pregnancy can make the gums more prone to swelling and inflammation due to increased sensitivity in the area.
Allergies
Allergies can also contribute to swollen gums. Allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts negatively to a substance or food item consumed or come into contact with the skin. Some common causes of allergies include pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, medications, and even cosmetics. The reaction from allergies can range from mild irritation of the skin or eyes to severe swelling of areas such as the lips or tongue – including your gums!
Symptoms of Swollen Gums
Along with visible swelling of the gum tissue, other symptoms may include pain when eating or drinking something hot or cold; pain when brushing teeth; redness of gums; bad breath due to bacterial buildup in gum pockets around teeth; receding gums that expose more tooth surface area than normal; bleeding from the gum area during brushing or flossing; loose teeth due to bone loss around teeth roots caused by gum disease.
Tips For Healthier Gums
If you’ve been experiencing swollen gums lately, it’s important that you follow these tips:
Change Your Diet
What you eat has a direct effect on your oral health. Make sure to eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and probiotics like yogurt and kefir. Avoid sugary foods and drinks as these contribute to plaque buildup on teeth.
Quit Smoking
Smoking has been linked with gingivitis and other periodontal diseases. Quitting smoking will not only help reduce your risk of gum disease, but it will also improve your overall health.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol are both dehydrating substances that can dry out the mouth, making it a breeding ground for bacteria. Cut back on caffeine and alcohol to keep your gums healthy.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
It’s essential to visit the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. This will help keep gum disease at bay, allowing your dentist to identify any problem areas early on.
Swollen gums are a common dental issue, but they can be managed with proper care and treatment. Following the tips above can help you keep your gums healthy and prevent swollen gums from happening in the first place.
