When it comes to oral health, many people tend to focus solely on preventing cavities and dental issues. But gum health also plays an important role in overall wellbeing. Gums not only hold teeth in place, but also act as a barrier to prevent bacteria from entering the body.
Swollen and bleeding gums are a common indicator of gum disease, although they can also be caused by other factors.
Why do gums hurt and how to relieve the pain? Find out the causes and treatments for swollen gums here.
Causes of swollen gums
Swollen gums can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as:
Plaque: Plaque build-up is a common cause of gingivitis - the first stage of gum disease. Bacterial plaque builds up on the teeth and, if not removed by regular brushing, can irritate the gums, causing them to become red and inflamed. Normally, the inflammation associated with gum disease is painless, but if left untreated, it can progress and worsen into periodontitis, a more serious and irreversible stage that can lead to tooth loss.
Mouth ulcers: These sores can be painful and can appear anywhere in the mouth, including the gums, which may cause pain and swelling. While uncomfortable, they are usually harmless and disappear within a few days. To prevent infection, an antimicrobial mouthwash can be used.
Gum abrasion: Brushing too hard or aggressively can damage the delicate gum tissue, which can cause pain and inflammation. To avoid this problem, it is advisable to use a gentle brushing motion.
Pregnancy : Hormonal changes in the body can increase blood flow to this area and make gums more easily inflamed and irritated. In addition to discomfort, swollen gums during pregnancy can be a risk factor for dental health. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly to prevent complications.
Malnutrition : Inflammation of the gums can be caused by a deficiency of vitamins, especially vitamins B and C. If you experience gum inflammation, it is important to make sure you eat a balanced diet and talk to your doctor about any possible vitamin deficiencies.
Since there are several possible causes of swollen gums, it is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine the cause of the swelling and get expert advice on how to treat it.
Inflamed gums: What treatments?
If you experience gum inflammation for more than two weeks, it is important to talk to your dentist. He or she will perform an examination and ask questions to determine the underlying cause of the problem. Dental x-rays may be necessary to confirm bone loss, and blood tests may be done to check for infection.
Depending on the source of the gum inflammation, the dentist may recommend specific mouth rinses or a special toothpaste to help prevent gingivitis and reduce plaque. In some cases, the use of antibiotics may be necessary.
For extreme cases of gingivitis, surgery may be recommended. This option is usually reserved for patients with advanced periodontal disease, such as moderate or severe periodontitis.
A common treatment option is scaling and root planing, in which the dentist scrapes plaque and tartar from the roots of the teeth and diseased gums.
Recommendations for treating swollen gums at home
Brush and floss gently so as not to hurt your gums.
Make sure you drink enough water to stimulate saliva production, which will protect your oral cavity.
Avoid irritants such as strong mouthwashes, alcohol and tobacco.
Start improving your oral health today by brushing and flossing your teeth daily. If it has been more than 6 months since your last visit to the dentist or dental hygienist, it is important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Professional dental cleanings are essential to maintain the health of your gums for life. Don't wait any longer to take care of your smile and prevent dental problems in the future!
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