How to Get Rid of Swollen Gums
Periodontal issues can be detrimental to a patient’s overall health because bacteria that lingers in the gum pockets can enter the bloodstream and cause more severe problems. Inflamed gum tissue can be uncomfortable and make oral hygiene painful.
Early gum disease presents as gingivitis, which is simply swelling of the gum tissue. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress into a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. Periodontitis can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.
What causes swollen gum tissue?
Gingivitis is the number one cause of swollen gums. Poor oral hygiene often results in gingivitis though is not the only reason one may develop gum issues. Gingivitis presents as red, puffy, and bleeding gums. When plaque forms on the teeth, it can harden into tartar if it is not regularly removed. Once tartar forms, it cannot be removed by the patient and requires a professional cleaning.
It is possible to have gingivitis without realizing it so it is important to maintain a good oral care routine at home and to see your Dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings, though patients with existing periodontal issues may need to have their teeth professionally cleaned three to four times per year.
Pregnancy and other life stages cause a rush of hormones in the female body which can increase the blood flow to gum tissue, leading to swollen and irritated gums.
Treating Swollen Gums
There are a few steps you can take on your own to help ease swollen gum tissue. Some home remedies include:
* Gently brush and floss with a soft-bristled toothbrush, especially after eating, to clean and massage your gums without irritating them further.
* A salt water rinse can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritation.
* Avoid irritants such as strong mouthwashes, alcohol, and tobacco.
* Water will help stimulate saliva production, which weakens disease-causing bacteria in the mouth.
If you have tried home treatments and your swollen gums persist for more than two weeks, it is time to seek treatment from your Dentist. They will perform a full oral exam and probably take some x-rays to make sure that there is nothing going on below the surface that they cannot see. If you are pregnant or have had any recent changes to your diet, be sure to inform your Dentist and hygienist.
Depending on the cause of your swollen gums, your Dentist may prescribe an oral rinse to help prevent gingivitis and reduce plaque buildup. They may also recommend a change in the oral care products you use at home. In some severe cases, antibiotics may be necessary.
Severe gum disease may require treatment from a Periodontist which may include laser therapy or a deep cleaning. A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, usually takes place over multiple visits to your Dentist. Your dental hygienist will perform the procedure which takes place under local anesthetic which is why the procedure is typically performed over two or more visits in order to prevent numbing your entire mouth. The anesthetic keeps you from feeling anything as they work to remove infection and plaque from below the gumline.