Gum swelling, also known as gingival swelling or edematous gingiva, is a common condition that can occur for a variety of reasons. Inflammation and irritation are the main causes of swollen gums. Gum swelling can range from mild to severe, and may be accompanied by other symptoms like gum tenderness, redness, and bleeding.
Causes of Swollen Gums
There are several potential causes for swollen gums:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by a bacterial infection. It occurs when plaque, a sticky film containing bacteria, builds up on teeth. The toxins from plaque bacteria can irritate and inflame the gums. In gingivitis, the gums become very swollen and red, and bleed easily. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and can progress to more serious forms like periodontitis if untreated.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease that occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. It involves inflammation not just of the gums but also progressive loss of the bone and supportive connective tissue that anchor the teeth. The gum tissue detaches from the teeth, forming deep pockets that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. This leads to chronic inflammation and swelling of the gums.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase sensitivity and irritation, making the gums more susceptible to swelling and inflammation. Gum disease is also more likely during pregnancy due to increased progesterone and estrogen levels.
Medications
Some medications can cause swollen, overgrown gums as a side effect. Drugs with this potential include:
– Calcium channel blockers used to treat high blood pressure
– Anticonvulsants for epilepsy
– Cyclosporine to prevent organ transplant rejection
– Oral contraceptives
The mechanisms by which these medications cause gum swelling are not fully understood. They may impact collagen production and the development of gum tissue.
Vitamin C Deficiency
Vitamin C is essential for healthy gums and wound healing. A deficiency in vitamin C can cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed. People with vitamin C deficiency are more susceptible to gum disease and swelling.
Grinding and Clenching
Excessive grinding or clenching of the teeth, known as bruxism, puts force on the teeth and gums that can cause gum swelling and irritation. The constant pressure wears down tooth enamel and pulls the gums away from the teeth.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Failure to properly brush and floss allows plaque to build up along and under the gumline. The bacteria in plaque release toxins that trigger an inflammatory reaction. Swollen, irritated gums are the result. Improper flossing technique can also damage gums and make them prone to swelling.
Gum Injury
Injuries from aggressive tooth brushing, dental instruments, sharp foods like chips or popcorn kernels, or oral piercings can damage the gums and cause them to swell up.
Dental Procedures
Certain dental treatments like tooth extractions, implants, deep cleanings, and braces can irritate the gums and cause temporary swelling and discomfort.
Cancer Treatment
Radiation and chemotherapy for cancer treatment can damage oral tissues like the gums, resulting in inflammation and swelling.
Ill-Fitting Dentures or Crowns
Poorly contoured restorations like dentures, bridges, or crowns that do not fit properly can rub and irritate the gums causing swelling and soreness.
Mouth Infections
Viral, fungal, and bacterial infections in the mouth, like oral thrush or herpes simplex virus, can spread to the gums and trigger inflammation and swelling.
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune conditions that affect connective tissues and cause inflammation throughout the body, like lupus, may also inflame the gums.
Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase a person’s risk of developing swollen gums:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Inadequate brushing and flossing leads to plaque buildup that irritates the gums.
Smoking
Smoking causes gum recession, bone loss, and delays healing. Nicotine constricts blood vessels reducing oxygen supply to gum tissues.
Genetics
Some people are genetically more prone to gum inflammation and periodontal disease.
Stress
Chronic stress can reduce immunity and healing ability, increasing gum inflammation.
Hormonal Changes
Hormone fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause impact gum health.
Chronic Diseases
Conditions like diabetes and HIV/AIDS raise susceptibility to gum problems.
Medications
Some drugs cause overgrown, swollen gums as a side effect.
Clenching/Grinding Teeth
Ongoing pressure from clenching and grinding teeth damages gums.
Crooked Teeth
Misaligned teeth are harder to clean properly allowing plaque to build up.
Old Fillings/Crowns
Defective dental work traps bacteria that can inflame the gums.
Symptoms
Along with swollen gums, other symptoms that may occur include:
Sensitive Teeth
Irritated gum tissues can make teeth painfully sensitive, especially to cold or hot foods and liquids.
Bleeding Gums
Gums may bleed easily when brushing, flossing or eating.
Redness and Inflammation
Gums appear puffy and red rather than pink, with a shiny and smooth look.
Receding Gums
Gums detach from teeth and shrink back, exposing tooth roots.
Bad Breath
Bacteria and food debris can collect in gum pockets causing halitosis.
Pus Around Teeth
Infection may cause gums to ooze yellow or white pus.
Loose Teeth
Inflamed gums no longer hold teeth firmly in place.
Changes in Bite
Swollen gums alter the way top and bottom teeth fit together when biting.
When to See a Dentist
You should make an appointment to see your dentist if you have:
Ongoing gum swelling
Swelling that persists more than 1-2 weeks needs evaluation.
Bleeding gums
Bleeding when brushing or flossing may signal gum disease.
Gum pain
Inflamed gums often become very tender and painful.
Receding gums
Gums that look like they are pulling away from the teeth need treatment.
Loose teeth
This may indicate advanced gum disease.
Pus around teeth
Pus is a sign of infection that requires prompt dental attention.
Changes in bite
If the way your teeth fit together changes, swollen gums may be the cause.
Diagnosis
The dentist will begin by reviewing your medical and dental history and performing a visual exam of your mouth. They will check for signs of plaque, inflammation, swollen gums, receding gums, and gum bleeding.
You may require dental x-rays to check for bone loss around teeth. The dentist can measure gum pockets around each tooth, testing for depth and bleeding. Deeper pockets usually mean more advanced gum disease.
A sample of plaque may be taken to test for bacteria levels. The dentist may also order blood tests if an underlying condition like diabetes could be involved.
All of these methods help determine the cause and severity of gum swelling to guide appropriate treatment.
Treatment
Treatment for swollen gums focuses on resolving the underlying cause:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Correct brushing and flossing removes plaque bacteria and food that irritate the gums. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria.
Professional Dental Cleaning
The dentist will thoroughly clean teeth and below the gumline to remove built-up plaque and tartar.
Root Planing and Scaling
Deep cleaning procedures remove plaque and tartar from tooth roots and beneath the gums.
Medications or Mouth Rinses
Antibacterial rinses and antibiotic medications may be prescribed to treat or prevent gum infections.
Gum Surgery
Surgeries like flap surgery and bone and tissue grafts repair gum damage and regrow lost supporting tissues in advanced cases.
Address Clenching/Grinding
A dental night guard worn while sleeping helps prevent damage from involuntary tooth clenching or grinding.
Treat Underlying Conditions
Manage diabetes, autoimmune disorders, vitamin deficiencies, and other medical conditions associated with swollen gums.
Adjust Medications
If a medication is causing overgrown gums, the prescribing doctor may alter dosage or prescribe a substitute drug.
Use Dental Products for Sensitive Teeth
Special toothpastes, mouth rinses, and toothbrush bristles relieve sensitivity from inflamed gums.
Proper gum treatment can successfully reduce swelling and prevent more serious complications like tooth loss. Catching gum problems early is key to better outcomes.
Home Remedies
Alongside professional dental treatment, you can help soothe swollen gums and prevent worsening with these home remedies:
Salt water rinse
Rinsing with warm salt water 2-3 times a day kills bacteria and reduces gum inflammation.
Aloe vera gel
Massaging pure aloe vera gel onto swollen gums provides anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
Green tea bags
Placing cool, damp green tea bags against the gums delivers healthful antioxidants to inflamed tissues.
Cold compress
Applying a cold cloth or ice pack to swollen gums reduces pain and swelling.
Cloves
Clove oil contains eugenol which numbs, soothes and fights bacteria and inflammation. Dab it gently on the gums.
Turmeric paste
Mixing turmeric powder with water or aloe vera and rubbing it on the gums provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
Be sure to use home remedies as an addition to, not instead of, professional dental treatment for gum swelling. See your dentist at the first sign of a problem.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a physician, in addition to your dentist, if you have:
– Severe or worsening gum swelling
– Swelling accompanied by fever, skin rash, or trouble breathing
– Swelling related to swollen lymph nodes or lesions in the mouth
– Gum swelling that persists after dental treatment
– Suspected underlying medical condition like diabetes or leukemia
A doctor can evaluate for other health issues and provide appropriate care if gum swelling is related to or symptomatic of a more complex medical problem.
Prevention
You can take these steps to prevent gum swelling and keep your gums healthy:
Brush thoroughly twice daily
Gently brushing teeth morning and night removes plaque that can irritate gums.
Floss once daily
Flossing cleans between teeth where plaque hides and brushing can’t reach.
Get regular dental cleanings
Professional cleanings prevent plaque buildup and detect problems early.
Don’t smoke
Smoking makes gum tissues prone to inflammation and disease.
Eat a balanced diet
Proper nutrition provides vitamins and nutrients for healthy gums.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated keeps tissues moist and resistant to inflammation.
Manage health conditions
Control existing medical issues like diabetes that increase gum problems.
Use a mouthguard if grinding teeth
A mouthguard cushions the force from clenching and grinding during sleep.
Limit alcohol
Heavy alcohol consumption impairs immunity and healing ability.
Conclusion
Swollen gums is a common dental problem with a variety of potential causes. Plaque buildup, medications, hormones, chronic health issues, injury, or dental treatments are often to blame. Symptoms like red, inflamed, bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, bad breath, and loose teeth can occur. Proper oral hygiene, dental procedures, treatment of underlying medical conditions, and home remedies can resolve gum swelling. Catching the problem early and maintaining diligent gum care prevents severe complications likeadvanced periodontal disease, tooth loss, and the need for extensive treatments. With a good oral hygiene routine and regular professional cleanings and exams, swollen gums can be avoided or properly managed for good long term gum health.