Swollen gum – Why does it happen and what do you need to do?

Swollen gums are water problems that are often experienced by many people regardless of age. This can cause discomfort, pain during eating, and even the initial signs of more serious oral health problems.

In this article, we will understand the main causes of swollen gums, symptoms that need to be observed, as well as treatment and care measures that can be taken to effectively complete it.

Also Read: Oral Ulcer, These 10 Best & Effective Option!

What is gum

Gums refer to conditions where the tissue becomes red, swollen and and sometimes painful or sensitive.

This condition can involve a small portion of the gums or the entire mouth area, and is often the first sign of a more serious oral health problem.

Causes of gum

1. Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums)
Gingivitis is the most common cause of swollen gums. This occurs when plaque containing bacteria accumulates on the surface of the teeth and gums, causing inflammation. If not treated, gingivitis can be more serious and cause periodontitis.

2. Virus or fungal infection
Gums can also swell due to viral infections such as herpes simplex or fungi like Candida Albicans. This infection causes wounds, inflammation, and discomfort around the gums.

3. Lack of nutrition (malnutrition)
Lack of vitamins, especially vitamin C, can cause gums to become weak and swollen. This is because vitamin C is important for tissue healing and maintaining health gums.

4. Fake dentures or inappropriate dental tools
The use of dentures or orthodontic devices can cause recurring friction in the gums, resulting in irritation and swelling.

5. Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause increased blood flow to the gums and make it more sensitive, swollen or bleeding – a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis.

6. Allergy to dental drugs or toothpaste
Some people may experience sensitivity to certain chemicals in toothpaste or drugs, which can cause irritation and swelling of gums.

7. Skurvi
Skurvi is a condition caused by severe vitamin C deficiency. This can cause the gums to be very swollen, soft, and bleed easily.

8. Side effects of drugs
Some types of drugs such as anti-spinal marrow, high blood pressure or immunosuppressants can cause enlargement of gum tissue as side effects.

9. trapped food leftovers
Food waste that is cleaned properly can be trapped between the teeth, causing the growth of bacteria and swelling in the gums in the area.

Symptoms & symptoms

Here are symptoms and symptoms that are usually associated with swollen gums:

1. Swelling of the gums – Gums look bigger, red or prominent.
2. Reddish gums – The color of the gums becomes bright or dark, different from healthy pink.
3. Gums bleed easily – especially when brushing or flossing.
4. Sick or uncomfortable – Gums feel sensitive, throb or pain when eating.
5. Breathing breath (halitosis) – Unpleasant bad breath due to infection or plaque formation.
6. Metal taste in the mouth – Some people may experience strange or bitter tastes.
7. Pus – Shows an infection or abscess.
8. The ability of teeth – In severe cases, loose gums can cause teeth to become unstable.
9. Fever or unhealthy feelings in general – Marking an infection that may have spread.

Way to care

Home care

1. Antiseptic drugs

Antiseptic debris cannot eliminate existing plaque or toothpaste, but can help control new plaque growth. This is available at a pharmacy without a recipe.

In some cases, dentists may provide special antiseptic debris that contain Chlorhexidinewhich is the most effective active ingredient in reducing gum inflammation.

2. Gargling with salt water

Salt water is one of the traditional methods that is proven to be effective in reducing gum inflammation and helping the wound healing process in the gums.

Studies show that salt water is effective compared to periodontal operations after periodontal operation.

This solution can be prepared by dissolving one teaspoon of salt into a cup of cooked warm water, and used 3-4 times a day to grind.

3. Gargling with Tea Tree oil

Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The study shows that its use can significantly reduce plaque and gum inflammation.

Tea tree oil can help relieve symptoms of gingivitis and improve overall health gums. However, its use needs to be done carefully to avoid swallowing.

4. Turmeric gel

Turmeric, which is rich in curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help relieve swelling and gum pain.

Turmeric gel can be applied directly to swollen gums to help reduce inflammation naturally.

5. Pain removal medicine

For those who suffer from swollen gums, painkillers such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling.

This is very useful when waiting for further dental treatment, especially when coming to infections such as dental abscesses.

Medical treatment in the clinic

1.

This is a professional treatment for removing toothpaste (tartar) that causes gingivitis.

Dentist or oral hygiene specialists will use special tools to remove corals and then polish the surface of the teeth so that bacteria are difficult to reinstate.

2. Treatment of tooth roots

Root Planing is a deep cleaning process that targets plaque and reefs on the roots of tooth.

This procedure usually involves the use of local anesthesia to reduce discomfort during treatment.

3. Antibiotics

If swollen gums are caused by serious infections such as dental abscesses, oral antibiotics may be needed to eliminate bacteria.

However, antibiotics alone are not enough – treatments such as root channels or toothbrushes must also be done to overcome the cause of infection.

4. Relationship and Drainage

In the case of gum abscess, the dentist may need to make a small incision in the swollen area to eliminate the accumulated pus.

Furthermore, the area will be rinsed with a salt solution, and the follow -up treatment can be given.

5. Root channels

Root channel treatment involves removal of bacteria and infected tissue from tooth roots.

The dentist will clean the inside of the teeth and refill the empty space. Sometimes, crown crown is installed to protect the treated teeth.

6. Unplug teeth

If the teeth are too damaged or cannot be stored, the dentist can recommend removal.

This procedure is usually carried out with local anesthesia, and the recovery period depends on the overall health of the patient.

Patients with blood clotting problems or taking blood vessels may require special attention.

A way to prevent swollen gums

The best way to prevent inflammation of gum is to practice good oral hygiene, including:

• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Flossing at least once a day
• Undergo a dental examination once or twice a year
• Meet a dentist if you have a swollen gum or toothache
• Prevent excess sugar intake to prevent plaque formation
• Do not use tobacco products

Also read: Oral Ulcer: Causes and Ways to Avoid

When to see a doctor



Although home care such as salt water or using antiseptic debris can provide temporary assistance for swollen gums, it is not a substitute for diagnosis and professional care.

Swollen gums can be caused by more serious basic problems such as infections, dental abscesses, or chronic gum diseases that require specific treatment.

If symptoms such as persistent swelling, severe pain, bleeding gums, pus, or fever occur, the individual must immediately consult a dentist.

Initial examination can help identify the actual causes and prevent worse complications.

Therefore, anyone with swollen gums is advised to get further evaluation and care from dental professionals.