Stop Suffering From Recurring Swollen Gums

Periodontal infections (aka gum infections) can be quite painful. But more importantly, they can be signs of larger problems to come. If you’re experiencing recurring swollen gums, it’s crucial that you go through the following steps to ensure your mouth is healthy. 

Taking these tips to heart can help alleviate the pain and discomfort that come with swollen gums — and give your mouth a clean bill of health again.

[Related: How To Properly Treat Your Receding Gums]

What Are the Symptoms of Swollen Gums?

First, you should know what some of the symptoms of swollen gums are to rule out any other health issues. 

1. Swollen gums typically have a reddish or purplish hue instead of their normal, healthy pink color.
2. You may also notice puffy gums that protrude or bulge
3. In more extreme cases, swollen gums may cover parts of your teeth. 

If you’re suffering from inflamed gums or swollen, you probably feel extra sensitivity and pain, and your gums may bleed when you brush them.

What Are the Common Causes of Swollen Gums?

A variety of dental issues can cause swollen gums:

• Gingivitis
• Periodontitis
• Tooth abscess
• Trench mouth
• Poorly fitting dentures 
• Poorly fitting mouthguard
• Bacterial infection
• Orthodontic treatment
• Tooth decay or infection
• Root fracture
• Something stuck in or under your gums

Additionally, viral infections, medication side effects, unmanaged diabetes and even pregnancy have been known to cause swollen gums.

[Related: Your Guide to Flossing]

When to See a Dentist?

If you’re suffering from recurring swollen or bleeding gums, your dentist needs to immediately inspect them and prescribe the proper care and give you treatment options. Painful swollen gums can be a precursor to something more serious (and more painful). They’re also a hallmark of an acute periodontal abscess.

Schedule an appointment with your dental office immediately to take charge of your gums’ health and wellness. Our Bellevue specialists offer periodontal treatment for patients dealing with recurring gum infections.

Traditional Treatments for Swollen Gums

Here are some additional ways to find relief from recurring swollen gums.

Take Antibiotics or Anti-Inflammatories

Once your dentist treats your gums and any abscesses, you need to protect your mouth from infection. Your dentist may give you a round of antibiotics.

There are different types of antibiotics that may be prescribed depending on the severity of the infection— and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to ensure you heal well. 

Remember: An abscess that creates a wound can take one to two weeks to completely heal. Be sure to follow your dental specialists’ instructions to recover fully.

Practice Good Dental Hygiene

This is a big one! Once your gums heal completely, you need to practice proper oral care to prevent any future incidents.

Be sure to:

• Brush and floss daily
• Make regular appointments for tooth and gum cleaning.

[Related: Periodontal Disease and Cardiovascular Health]

Improve Your Lifestyle Choices

In all seriousness, now’s the time to cut back (or quit completely) lifestyle choices that can affect your mouth’s health. 

• Stop using tobacco products (including vaping)
• Cut down on alcohol
• Try your best to stay away from sugary foods
  
  All these things can encourage gum disease, tooth decay and even oral cancer.

Try Temporary Home Treatments

Although it’s important to schedule a dental appointment for your swollen gums, the pain probably won’t hold off while you wait. 

For quick relief at home before your appointment, here’s a couple of home remedies:

• Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater a few times a day
• Apply an ice pack to your mouth to reduce swelling and inflammation

Are Recurring Swollen Gums Permanent?

Don’t worry. Between you and your dentist, you should be able to cure swollen gums with proper treatment. 

Depending on the underlying issues, gum swelling may even go away on its own. Just remember that the sooner you get treatment for swollen gums and more serious issues like gum disease, the better your chances are for long-term oral health.

If recurring gum issues are affecting you, our team also offers emergency dental treatment in Bellevue for cases that can’t wait.

[Related: How To Prevent Oral Cancer]

Contact Cascadia Dental Specialists Today

Taking care of your gum tissue is crucial for maintaining the health of both your teeth and gums. Ignoring symptoms like gum inflammation or irritating your gums by using hard-bristled toothbrushes or smoking can make matters worse.

If left untreated, these issues can lead to more severe problems, including gum disease and even tooth loss. Regular checkups and good oral hygiene habits can help prevent further damage and keep your gums and teeth healthy for years to come.

If you have any questions about gum pain, swollen gum around one tooth or would like to schedule a consultation:

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