You care for your teeth through brushing and flossing, but what about your gums? Paying special attention to your gums is a significant part of your oral health. Your body has ways of notifying you when your gums need a checkup. Among these are the not-so-welcome swollen gums, which are typically sensitive and painful. However, as New York gum swelling specialists point out, gum inflammation and swelling are one of the earliest indicators of developing gum disease or associated dental problems. Knowing what causes your gums to swell and what you can do to ease the pain and eliminate swelling is imperative.
Causes of swollen gums
Outside your oral hygiene habits, there are variegated causes of swollen gums. Here are the common and not-so-common causes of swollen gums.
Infections and bacteria
The typical culprit is plaque buildup, which coalesces into tartar over time. Tartar can’t be removed through brushing and flossing. The tartar buildup causes gingivitis which predominantly manifests as swollen gums. Other infections, such as herpes and oral thrush, may also cause swollen gums. It is imperative to seek medical help before gingivitis worsens into periodontal disease.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition is a less-known cause of swollen gums. Deficiency in vitamins B and C causes puffy gums, and the gums recede. An acute shortage of vitamin C causes scurvy. Diets like the paleo diet, which don’t have sufficient vitamins, can cause swollen gums.
Pregnancy
In a similar vein, pregnancy also can cause swollen gums. During pregnancy, the hormones cause blood to flow to your gums, making them swell and increasing sensitivity. Getting dental checkups as part of your prenatal dental care is imperative.
Aggressive brushing
Your flossing and brushing techniques may cause swollen gums. Aggressive brushing irritates your gums and sometimes incises them. Occasionally you may find little blood in the sink after brushing. This shouldn’t be a cause for alarm. But you need to get checked when you notice large amounts of blood in the sink after brushing.
When to see a dentist about swollen gums?
The best time to get help with swollen gums is immediately after the irritation creeps in. Swollen gums that last up to two weeks or more are a sign you need to visit your dentist. Also, you need expert dental care if you have swollen and bleeding gums accompanied by bad breath. You may try at-home remedies to minimize inflammation. Turmeric, clove oil, green tea, and aloe vera are home remedies for swollen gums.
How are swollen gums treated?
Dentists administer a wide range of treatments ranging from mouthwash to surgery. However, before treatment, a full dental X-ray is paramount to establish if there’s any bone loss. The dentist may also order a blood test to check for any infection. The primary treatment options are antibiotics and mouth rinses. In extreme cases, the dentist may recommend surgery; but this is only for advanced cases of swollen gums.
Inflamed gums cause immense pain and stop you from eating your favorite foods. Luckily, you do not have to live with swollen gums; you can receive expert medical care at top-rated dental centers. Preventive measures include brushing, eating a balanced diet, and getting routine checkups to prevent swollen gums. However, if you experience pain in your gums or irritation, then you can book a dental appointment at Compassionate Endodontists in New York.
