Swollen gums, also known as gingival swelling, occur when gum tissue becomes enlarged. This common dental issue can manifest as red, irritated, sensitive, or painful gums, and they may bleed easily when brushed or flossed. Swollen gums indicate an underlying oral health issue. Understanding the reasons behind this inflammation is a first step toward addressing discomfort and maintaining healthy gums.
Common Causes of Swollen Gums
The most frequent reason for swollen gums is gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. This condition develops from plaque accumulation, a sticky film of bacteria and food particles, on teeth and along the gumline. If plaque is not consistently removed, it hardens into tartar, irritating gum tissue. Inadequate brushing or flossing contributes to this buildup.
Food particles lodged between teeth can also cause inflammation. This “food impaction” leads to localized pain, redness, and swelling. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy, puberty, menstruation, or menopause, can increase gum sensitivity and make them more prone to swelling. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of vitamins B and C, can also contribute.
Some medications cause gingival enlargement as a side effect, including certain anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants, and calcium channel blockers. Less common causes include viral or fungal infections, poorly fitting dental appliances, or sensitivities to ingredients in toothpaste or mouthwash.
Factors Influencing Gum Healing Time
The time for swollen gums to heal varies depending on the underlying cause and intervention. For minor irritations, like temporarily trapped food, swelling may resolve within days with diligent oral hygiene. With gingivitis, gums can begin to heal in about two weeks with effective treatment, including professional cleaning and improved home care. Full healing may take up to four weeks.
More advanced gum disease, such as periodontitis, involves deeper infection and takes longer to resolve, often weeks to months. Aspects like gum detachment are nonreversible. The severity of swelling also plays a role, with more pronounced inflammation requiring more time. Consistent oral hygiene accelerates healing by removing irritants.
An individual’s general health impacts healing speed. Conditions affecting the immune system, such as diabetes, leukemia, or HIV/AIDS, can slow the process. Smoking or tobacco use significantly hinders healing by reducing blood flow to the gums. Poor nutrition, particularly vitamin C deficiency, can impede recovery. Adherence to a professional treatment plan is important, as early detection and consistent follow-through can shorten healing duration.
Home Care Approaches for Swollen Gums
To alleviate symptoms and promote healing at home, maintain gentle yet thorough oral hygiene. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, cleaning along the gumline. Daily flossing is essential to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gumline.
Rinsing with warm saltwater can help reduce bacteria and inflammation. Mix about a quarter teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water, then swish and spit. An antimicrobial mouthwash can also neutralize plaque bacteria and support gum health. Applying a warm or cold compress to the outside of the cheek near the swollen area can provide discomfort relief and reduce swelling.
Avoiding certain irritants also supports gum healing. Steer clear of spicy or acidic foods, which can further irritate inflamed gums. Limit sugary foods and drinks, as sugar contributes to plaque buildup. Tobacco and alcohol should be avoided, as they irritate gum tissue and impede healing. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps rinse away food particles, dilutes acids, and supports healthy saliva production, all beneficial for gum health.
Recognizing When to Seek Dental Care
While home care offers relief for minor gum swelling, recognize when professional dental attention is needed. Seek a dentist if gum swelling persists for more than a few days to two weeks, even with consistent home care. Severe or increasing pain not improving with over-the-counter medication indicates a dental visit. Any persistent or severe bleeding from the gums requires professional evaluation.
Signs of potential infection require immediate dental care. These include pus or discharge near the gumline, a persistent bad taste, or swelling accompanied by fever or chills. Difficulty eating or swallowing, swelling spreading to the face or jaw, loose teeth, or ulcers or red patches in the mouth are also serious symptoms requiring prompt attention.
A dentist can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which may range from deep cleaning to antibiotics. Early intervention prevents the condition from worsening and avoids serious complications affecting oral health.