Swollen gums: causes, symptoms and how to treat them
The swollen gums They are one of the most frequent reasons for dental consultations. Although they may initially seem like a simple annoyance, if left untreated they can lead to more serious conditions such as... gingivitis and periodontitis.
En MAG Dental MadridIn the Hortaleza neighborhood, we specialize in gum health And we offer advanced treatments to restore the health and aesthetics of your gums.
Why are the gums inflamed?
La gum inflammation It is usually due to the accumulation of bacterial plaque along the gum line. This plaque forms when food debris is not properly removed by brushing, leading to irritation and bleeding.
Main causes
Poor oral hygiene.
Aggressive brushing or use of hard brushes.
Hormonal changes (pregnancy, adolescence or menopause).
Stress or smoking.
Vitamin deficiency, especially vitamin C.
Poorly fitting dentures or fillings.
Bacterial or viral infections.
Certain medications that reduce saliva production.
When this inflammation persists over time, the gums can recede, bleed, or even cause tooth mobility.
| Cause | Characteristic symptoms | Recommended professional treatment | Home remedies or care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accumulation of bacterial plaque (gingivitis) | Red, soft gums that bleed when brushing | Professional cleaning, specific mouthwash (Bexident Gums, Vitis Gums), periodontal check-up | Brush gently 2–3 times a day, floss, rinse with warm salt water |
| Tartar or dental calculus | Persistent inflammation, bad breath, receding gums | Curettage or scaling and root planing | Brushing with anti-plaque toothpaste, check-ups every 6 months |
| Hormonal changes (pregnancy, period, menopause) | More sensitive and swollen gums, slight bleeding | Gentle cleaning, regular follow-up with the dentist | Gentle hygiene, soft brush, alcohol-free mouthwash |
| Vitamin C or iron deficiency | Easy bleeding, pale gums, general weakness | Nutritional assessment, supplements under medical supervision | Increase citrus fruits, green vegetables, and legumes |
| Stress or weakened immune system | Sore gums, canker sores, or recurring ulcers | Periodontal control, treatment with regenerative gel | Get enough sleep, reduce stress, take omega-3 and magnesium |
| Aggressive brushing or improper brushing | Gum recession, tooth sensitivity | Retraining in brushing technique, change of brush | Soft bristle brush, gentle circular movements |
| Use of medications (antihypertensives, contraceptives) | Swollen or bleeding gums without visible plaque | Medical supervision and dose adjustment if possible | Gentle cleansing, mild anti-inflammatory mouthwash |
| Smoking | Pale or receding gums, bad breath, slow healing | Deep cleaning, periodontal control | Quit smoking, increase vitamin C and antioxidants |
| Gum infection or abscess | Intense pain, fever, lump with pus, localized swelling | Drainage and antibiotic for tooth and gum infection | Rinse with warm salt water while you wait for your appointment |
| Wisdom tooth eruption | Pain behind the last molars, localized inflammation | Cleaning, radiographic control, extraction if necessary | Rinse with chamomile or salt water, avoid putting pressure on the area |
| Poorly fitting prostheses or crowns | Localized inflammation and bleeding when chewing | Adjustment or replacement of the prosthesis or crown | Keep the area clean, use an interproximal brush |
| Gum cancer (rare) | Non-healing sore, persistent bleeding, localized pain | Diagnosis by biopsy and cancer treatment | Regular check-ups and early detection |
Symptoms of swollen gums
Identifying symptoms early is key to avoiding major complications.
The most common are:
- Red, tender, or shiny gums.
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing.
- Persistent bad breath.
- Pain or discomfort when chewing.
- Receding gums or a feeling of "longer teeth".
- Lump or abscess on the gum.
If it also appears fever and swollen gumsIt could be a acute gingival infection requiring immediate attention.
Diseases related to inflamed gums
El Bleeding gumsRetraction and pain often indicate one of the following diseases:
1. Gingivitis
It is the initial and reversible phase of periodontal disease.
Causes Swollen, bleeding, and sensitive gumsbut it does not yet affect the bone.
It is easily dealt with Professional cleaner y specific mouthwashes , the Bexident Gums, Vitis Gums o Parodontax Gums.
2. Periodontitis
When gingivitis is left untreated, the bacteria penetrate deep into the bone, causing tooth mobility y gum recession.
treatment includes scaling and root planing (curettage) or even gum graft in advanced cases.
3. Abscess or phlegmon
Un gum abscess or painless lump It could be a sign of a infection which requires Antibiotics for tooth and gum infections and professional drainage.
4. Gum cancer
Although less common, the gum cancer It can begin with persistent inflammation or sores that don't heal. At MAG Dental Madrid, we perform a precise diagnosis to rule out this cause.
How to cure swollen gums quickly
In many cases, the treatment depends on the underlying cause.
En MAG Dental Madrid We performed a complete evaluation to determine if the inflammation stems from a infectiona whirlpool bath, poor hygiene or structural problem.
Professional treatments
- Professional dental cleaning.
Removes tartar buildup below the gum line. - Gum curettage or scraping.
Deep cleaning in cases of periodontitis. - Gum graft.
In cases of gum recession advanced or receding gums. - Application of regenerating gel.
Products like the gel to regenerate gums They aid in healing. - Medicated mouthwashes.
As an Vitis Gums Mouthwash o Bexident Gum Adjunctive Treatment.
Home remedies for swollen gums
Although Home Remedies They can relieve symptoms, but they are not a substitute for professional treatment. Some helpful tips are:
- Rinse with warm water and salt twice daily.
- Use a soft toothbrush.
- Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and very hot foods.
- Increase consumption of Vitamin C and water.
- Apply soothing or anti-inflammatory gel specific.
If symptoms persist for more than a week, it is essential to see a dentist.
Prevention: how to keep your gums healthy
The best way to avoid swollen gums It involves maintaining consistent oral hygiene and having regular checkups.
Follow these recommendations:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a toothpaste specifically for gums.
- Usa Dental floss or oral irrigator.
- go to one Professional cleaning every six months.
- Avoid stress and tobacco.
- Usa gentle mouthwashes for daily use , the Bexident Gums o Vitis Gums.
En MAG Dental MadridWe teach our patients the proper technique and personalize each treatment according to the cause of the gingival problem.
When to go to the dentist
You should visit the clinic if you experience:
- Persistent gum pain.
- Gums that bleed every day.
- Inflammation with pus or fever.
- Tooth mobility or visible retraction.
The sooner the cause is treated, the faster the recovery and the lower the risk of bone or tooth loss.
Sources of authority
- Spanish Society of Periodontology (SEPA)
- Mayo Clinic: Gingivitis and Gum Disease
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIH)
Frequently asked questions about swollen gums
What can you do to reduce gum inflammation?
Maintain good oral hygiene, use specific mouthwashes, and visit the dentist for a professional cleaning.
What causes gum inflammation?
Primarily bacterial plaque and tartar, although hormonal changes, stress or poor diet also play a role.
How can I tell if I have a gum infection?
If you notice pain, pus, a bad taste in your mouth, or a lump, you probably have an infection. In these cases, it's essential to receive dental treatment.
How long do swollen gums last?
If treated correctly, the inflammation can disappear in less than a week. In advanced cases, several sessions may be required.
What can be taken for gum inflammation?
Anti-inflammatory drugs can temporarily relieve pain, but definitive treatment should be done by a specialized dentist.
Conclusion
The swollen gums They should not be ignored. They are the first sign of a gum problem that, if treated in time, has a quick and effective solution.
En MAG Dental MadridWe treat everything from mild cases to advanced periodontitis with state-of-the-art technology, guaranteeing long-lasting results.
Request your free assessment and restore the health of your gums.
Diploma of Advanced Studies in Clinical Techniques in Dentistry. (2002 - 2003). University of Barcelona.
Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Dental Aesthetics. Catalan Society of Odontostomatology. Barcelona (2004 -2005).
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