What To Do About Gum Swelling

The main cause of swollen gums is plaque, or biofilm, as a result of poor oral hygiene. When it builds up, plaque can lead to an infection of the gums called gingivitis, or early gum disease. The bacteria in the plaque irritate the delicate gum tissue, and the result is swollen, inflamed and sore gums. You might also notice that your gums bleed when brushing or flossing.

Here are a few other common causes of swollen gums:

• Smoking. Chemicals in cigarette smoke and tobacco can irritate the gum tissue, causing swollen gums and other gum problems.

• Medications. If you've recently started a new medication and are noticing gum swelling, it could be a side effect from your medicine. Make sure to talk to your prescribing doctor before making any changes to your medication regime.

• Different toothpaste or mouthwash. If you've recently switched brands, you may be having a reaction to a new ingredient.

• Poor nutrition. Make sure to include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet to give your gums the nutrients they need for good health. Specifically, make sure you’re getting enough vitamin C, as a deficiency in this vitamin can show up as bleeding, sore and swollen gums.

• Pregnancy. Inflamed, sensitive and swollen gums are common during pregnancy due to hormone changes.

• Fitted dental appliances. Braces, retainers, and dentures are often associated with swollen or sore gums. Ask your dentist or orthodontist to check and adjust the fit of your appliances so they’re not irritating your gums.

If you’ve not been a regular flosser, you might be alarmed to find that flossing hurts your gums and leaves them swollen and even bleeding. Rest assured that this is normal in the days after introducing a new flossing habit, especially if you’re suffering from gingivitis. As your gums start to heal, you should notice the bleeding and swelling stops. 

Your gums can also become swollen after flossing if you’re using an improper technique. When you're sliding the floss between your teeth, be careful not to snap it into place or saw at your gums with it. Instead, slide it between the teeth and up to the gum line in a gentle back-and-forth motion.

If your gum is only swollen around one tooth, it could be a sign of a localized problem. Possible explanations and solutions include: 

• An abscessed tooth. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms below an infected tooth. This can be very serious and needs to be treated quickly. If you also have swelling in the face and jaw, difficulty swallowing, fever, or intense pain, call your dentist urgently. 

• A dental procedure. If you’ve recently had a dental procedure on the affected tooth, like a filling or a gum graft, swelling may be a natural part of the healing process. However, if the swelling seems to be getting worse, or it’s accompanied by signs of an infection (pus, worsening pain, fever, facial swelling), then contact your dentist urgently. 

• Stuck food. Sometimes a piece of food can slide down between the teeth and gums, irritating your gum tissue and causing it to swell. Try rinsing your mouth thoroughly to dislodge it, being careful not to pick at it and injure your gums. If you’re unable to remove it, ask your dentist for advice. 

• Injury or trauma. If you’ve injured your gums or the nearby tooth, it may take a little time for the swelling to subside. Anti-inflammatories may help, but if the swelling gets worse, contact your dentist for advice.