Swollen gums are a very common oral problem that can happen due to a number of different reasons. If swelling gums tend to stay for more than a few days, you should immediately contact a dentist.
While you are waiting for your appointment, there are a couple of things you can do to prevent the problem from getting worse.
But before we jump into the dos and don’ts of when you have swollen gums, let’s look at the common root causes of gum swelling.
Common Causes of Swollen Gums
- There are quite a few common causes of gum swelling, here are some which we see on a daily basis at Saddle River dentist office.
Change of Tooth Paste
- If you have just recently switched your toothpaste, floss, or mouthwash, swollen gums could be because of an allergic reaction.
Don’t change your toothpaste without consulting a dentist first, especially if you have sensitive teeth or chronic oral problems.
Medicines
- Certain prescribed medicines can cause swollen gums as a side effect. If you think your teeth and gums started to feel painful or swollen, talk to your dentist or doctor and see if there are any alternative medicines available.
Nutritional Issues
- One of the reasons that irritate your gums is poor nutrition. For example, Vitamin C deficiency is known to cause inflamed gums.
If you have a Vitamin C deficiency, start adding fruits and vegetables rich in the vitamin to your diet.
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Gingivitis
- Swollen and bleeding gums could also be happening due to gingivitis. If you have not been brushing your teeth or flossing them properly, you could have this problem. Brushing and flossing are very important for healthy teeth and gums.
There are a number of other causes of swollen gums. If one of these doesn’t seem to be the root cause, talk to a dentist today. Schedule an online appointment with Vitarelli Dental and we’ll get to the bottom of the problem.
How to Get Relief from Swollen Gums
- One of the first and most important things to do is to book an appointment with a dentist. While you wait for an appointment, here are some things you can do to reduce discomfort and swelling in the gums.
Do These When You Have Swollen Gums
- Try and improve your nutrition. Add vegetables and fruits and avoid caffeinated drinks such as coffee and carbonated beverages. You need to also cut down on alcohol and tobacco if the issue persists for more than two to three days.
- Don’t miss brushing or flossing. If swollen gums are being caused due to gingivitis, then you need to take extra care of your oral hygiene. Brush and floss your teeth regularly to remove food particles after eating or at the end of the day. You also need to see if you are using the right toothpaste or mouthwash.
- Inflammed gums can also be controlled by rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution. There are many home remedies on the internet that can help you make a salt-water solution at home.
- See the dentist. If you haven’t already booked an appointment with a dentist, you need to immediately do so. Periodontal therapy can detect most oral health problems and provide effective solutions.
Don’t Do These When You Have Swollen Gums
- Immediately stop or cut down the use of tobacco and alcohol. Both substances are notorious when it comes to irritating your gums.
- Don’t ignore the condition. You need to take immediate action if the problem persists for more than two to three days. If swollen gums are left untreated, it could be due to a serious underlying problem. Visit a dental professional at our Madison dental office for a quick and long-term solution.
- Stop using toothpaste and mouthwash that irritate your gums. Most Mouthwashes have alcohol in them which may further irritate swollen gums. Change the brand of your toothpaste if you feel it is hurting your condition further.
Get Professional Help Immediately
No matter how bad the condition of swollen gums is, it is crucial that you get your oral health looked at by a professional dentist. For swollen gums, you will have to go through periodontal therapy.
The procedure aims to restore diseased tissue back to their healthy state. Gum diseases can easily spread from the gums to the bones that support the teeth, and if left untreated, could lead to tooth loss.