Swollen gums, also known as gingival swelling, occur when the gum tissue becomes enlarged or puffy. This condition is a sign that inflammation is present, and while usually linked to issues in the mouth, it can sometimes signal a problem with overall nutrition. The vitamin deficiency most directly associated with severe gum disease is a prolonged lack of ascorbic acid, commonly referred to as Vitamin C.
Scurvy: The Deficiency That Targets Gums
A severe and prolonged deficiency of Vitamin C leads to the systemic disease known as Scurvy. While rare in developed nations, cases still occur in individuals with severely restricted diets or underlying conditions affecting nutrient absorption. The gum tissue affected by Scurvy becomes markedly inflamed, taking on a spongy, purplish, or deep red appearance.
This extreme gingival inflammation is often accompanied by spontaneous and heavy bleeding. As the condition progresses, the structural integrity of the tissue surrounding the teeth weakens dramatically, which can lead to increased tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss. Systemic signs frequently include general fatigue, joint pain, and the easy development of bruises under the skin.
The Importance of Vitamin C for Tissue Repair
The reason Vitamin C deficiency produces such severe symptoms in the gums relates directly to its biological role in synthesizing collagen. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, serving as the main structural component in connective tissues like gum ligaments, bone matrix, and the walls of blood vessels. Vitamin C acts as a necessary cofactor for the enzymes responsible for stabilizing and producing strong collagen fibers.
Without sufficient ascorbic acid, the body cannot manufacture new, stable collagen to replace damaged or aging tissue, leading to a breakdown of the existing structures. The fragility of the small blood vessels in the gums, caused by defective collagen in their walls, explains the characteristic bleeding seen in Scurvy. Fortunately, the symptoms of deficiency are highly reversible; providing adequate Vitamin C through supplementation or diet often results in a rapid resolution of the gingival issues within days. Good dietary sources to ensure adequate intake include citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, and other fresh fruits and vegetables.
Non-Nutritional Causes of Gum Swelling
While nutritional deficiency is a specific cause, the majority of swollen gum cases stem from non-nutritional factors, primarily poor oral hygiene. The most common cause is plaque-induced gingivitis, an inflammation triggered by the buildup of bacterial plaque on the teeth and at the gumline. If this plaque hardens into tartar, the irritation intensifies, often causing the gums to appear reddish, tender, and to bleed easily.
If left unaddressed, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease that involves damage to the underlying bone structure supporting the teeth. Other non-nutritional factors can also cause gingival swelling by increasing tissue sensitivity or blood flow. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy or puberty, make the gums more susceptible to inflammation. Certain medications, including specific anti-seizure drugs and calcium channel blockers, may also induce an overgrowth of the gum tissue known as gingival enlargement.