If you have swollen, inflamed gums, this can cause serious discomfort. Although inflamed gums are not life-threatening, they can significantly affect oral health. The most common causes of gingivitis are poor oral hygiene, smoking, medical treatment, hormonal changes, and irritation from dental appliances such as dentures or braces.
Symptoms of inflammation of the gums
In good condition, the gums should have a light pink shade and fit tightly to the teeth.
Inflamed gums usually cause the following symptoms:
- discomfort;
- redness;
- bleeding;
- bruises near the gum line;
- persistent bad breath;
- edema;
- sensitivity;
- recession (recession of the gums from the roots of the teeth).
Causes of gum inflammation
One of the common causes of gum inflammation is poor oral hygiene. Insufficient care for the teeth leads to the formation of dental plaque. Because plaque is a biofilm made up of bacteria that hardens if not removed immediately. When plaque hardens, it turns into tartar and penetrates the gum line. The point is that tartar is, in fact, a protective barrier against bacteria. This means that it is difficult to penetrate and therefore allows the bacteria to live longer. Bacterial byproducts cause inflammation of the gums.
Gingivitis: an early and relatively mild form of gum disease. One of the most common signs of gum disease is sensitivity and bleeding when brushing or flossing. Although gingivitis is not a serious stage of gum disease, it is important to treat the problem early to avoid further problems.
Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated early, it can progress to a more serious type of gum infection known as periodontitis. In this condition, inflammation of the gums increases, and the teeth may begin to loosen. With periodontitis, the tissue that holds the teeth is damaged. Dental treatment of inflamed gums and periodontitis is very important for long-term oral health and prevention of tooth loss.
Abscess: Dental abscesses develop when pus builds up inside or around a tooth. This condition can be caused by gum disease, tooth decay, fractures, or other problems.
Food build-up on the teeth: Food particles stuck between the teeth can put some pressure on the gum line. Inflammation leads to swelling. To relieve discomfort, try flossing and rinsing your mouth with water.
Reaction to mouthwash or toothpaste due to sensitivity: Inflammation of the gums can be the result of sensitivity to certain products. In addition, an allergic reaction to novelties can provoke the appearance of edema. As a rule, the cause is a new toothpaste or mouthwash.
Pregnancy: inflammation of the gums can occur as a result of numerous hormonal changes that occur in a woman’s body during pregnancy.
Orthodontic appliances: It takes time for the gums to adjust to new orthodontic appliances, including dentures or braces. Until this happens, the gums can swell and become inflamed. In addition, the gums can become irritated if the dental appliances do not fit the patient. If the discomfort becomes stronger, you should consult a dentist as soon as possible.
Diet: Your diet can affect gum health. An unhealthy diet with low levels of vitamin C can lead to gum inflammation.
Smoking and tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth, which is very important for oral health. Saliva washes away bacteria, which complicates the formation of dental plaque. With a dry mouth, it is much easier for bacteria to create colonies between the gums. Smokers are at greater risk of developing tartar and gum inflammation.
Injuries in the mouth: gum tissue and teeth are often damaged by trauma to the mouth.
What are the methods of treating inflamed gums?
The following methods can help your swollen, inflamed gums heal.
- Change the way you brush your teeth. Choose toothbrushes with soft bristles and avoid brushing too hard, as this can damage the tissue around the teeth. Also floss slowly and make sure you get rid of any food particles stuck between your teeth.
- Always choose a healthy lifestyle. Gum health can also be maintained by eating a healthy diet and controlling your blood sugar if you have diabetes. Healthy teeth and gums can result from eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods. To maintain both a healthy body and a healthy smile, follow a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, protein foods, calcium-rich foods, and whole grains.
- Visit the dentist regularly. Make an appointment with your dentist to remove tartar and keep your gums healthy. You may need professional cleanings more often if you smoke, take certain medications, have dry mouth, or have other risk factors for periodontitis.