Gum swelling is a frequent problem that affects a lot of people, and it can be not only uncomfortable but also cause distress. Although this may seem like no big deal, swollen gums could indicate more serious dental disease. So, knowing the causes, symptoms and the treatment medically is important that your oral health stays good. In this post, we will explore the seven most common reasons for gum swelling, and how Bella Dental can help Penrith locals manage and prevent these issues the healthy way.
What Causes Gum Swelling?
There are several causes of gum swelling, and these can be associated with different oral health conditions. Some are minor; others can result in serious complications if not treated. Let’s take a closer look at these common causes.
- What Is Gingivitis And How Does It Cause Gum Swelling?
Gingivitis is the most common cause of gum inflammation. This common type of gum disease is often caused by plaque building up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that occurs when food particles are not removed from your teeth after eating. As plaque builds up, it can irritate the gum tissue, which can appear red and swollen and may bleed when you brush or floss.
Treatment at Bella Dental: If you are showing signs of gingivitis, you can be treated with professional cleaning and enhanced oral hygiene. Here at Bella Dental, we provide professional cleaning and recommendations for proper oral hygiene.
Prevention: gingivitis is best prevented by brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste and flossing and routine dental check-ups. The secret is to brush twice a day and floss at least once.
- What is Periodontitis and How Does It Impact the Gums?
Periodontitis is a severe type of gum disease that develops when gingivitis goes untreated. This disease can lead to deeper infections that reach the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. Symptoms of periodontitis include swollen, tender gums that may bleed, persistent bad breath, and tooth mobility.
Treatment at Bella Dental: Periodontitis is treated more aggressively with scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar below the gum line. In worse conditions, an operation could be required.
Prevention: You can help prevent periodontitis with regular dental visits. That build-up hardens into tartar, which professional cleanings are critical in addressing so tartar does not lead to gum disease. At Bella Dental, we emphasise preventive care to help prevent such complications.
- Does a gum abscess cause the gums to swell?
It is a painful infection that occurs deep in the soft tissue lining the gums (gum tissue) and is generally the result of untreated tooth decay and injury. The infection produces an accumulation of pus which causes substantial swelling, pain, and tenderness. A dental infection can be released, which would cause a more serious dental emergency if the infection spreads.
Treatment at Bella Dental: If you have a gum abscess, you need to get immediate dental care. Treatment may include draining the abscess and giving antibiotics. If the infection is connected to a broken tooth, a root canal or removal of the tooth might be warranted.
To prevent: Good oral hygiene and regular visits to a Dentist Penrith can prevent the formation of gum abscess. Early treatment for cavities and other dental issues lowers the risk of creating an abscess.
- How Is Gum Swelling Caused by Poor Oral Hygiene?
Not brushing your teeth would lead to plaque and tartar build-up which would give you swollen gums. When plaque is not cleared away, it stays stuck and eventually hardens into tartar, which can be removed only by a dentist or hygienist. This accumulation irritates the gums, resulting in inflammation, swelling, and possible bleeding.
Treatment at Bella Dental: At Bella Dental, we provide deep cleaning services including scaling and root planing to treat the tartar and plaque build-up. Our home care recommendations help prevent future problems and are tailored to your specific needs.
Prevention: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to help clear food particles and plaque. Regular visits to your dentist will also help keep your gums well.
- How Can Tooth Infection or Abscess Cause Gum Swelling?
A tooth infection or abscess is usually a consequence of untreated tooth decay or damage. This infection can migrate to the adjacent gum tissue, resulting in inflammation and swelling. The area can become red, swollen and tender, and you may have discomfort or pain while chewing.
Treatment at Bella Dental: If you think that you have a tooth infection, you need professional treatment immediately. Bella Dental provides a variety of treatments, from root canal therapy to tooth extractions, depending on how severe the infection is.
Prevention: Filling up and having regular dental exams. Cavities and other problems are best detected early, which is essential to keeping teeth and gums healthy.
- Do Hormonal Changes Make Your Gums Swollen?
Hormones that fluctuate during pregnancy, menstruation or menopause can cause your gums to be more sensitive and swell. These changes can impact the circulation to the gums, which is why the gums are more likely to become inflamed.
How Bella Dental Can Treat: If you notice swollen gums as a result of hormonal changes, our team can help with gentle care and advice to ensure oral hygiene is in check during these months. Regular dental checkups are vital for controlling gum health.
Prevention: Practicing good oral hygiene is important during hormonal fluctuations. Make sure to brush and floss at least twice a day and keep your dental appointments.
- How Do Medications Cause Gum Swelling?
Some medications — including the anticonvulsant phenytoin — can lead to gum overgrowth or irritation. This condition, called drug-induced gingival hyperplasia, causes swollen, enlarged gums. Another reason we should take the problem of swollen gums seriously is that swollen gums can make it impossible to keep our mouths clean, and that can help increase the risk of further complications.
Bella Dental treatment: Bella Dental offers personalised treatment that includes professional cleanings to help alleviate gum swelling caused by medications. We may also work with your prescribing doctor to adjust your medication, if needed.
Prevention: If you’re on any medications that are known to affect your gums, talk to your dentist on a regular basis about possible side effects and how to avoid them. Good oral hygiene care is important.
Bella Dental: Your Solution for Gum Swelling in Penrith
Swollen gums can be painful and worrying, but at Bella Dental, we make sure we provide you with the knowledge to understand what is going on. With a team of highly trained professionals dedicated to treating and preventing gum problems in the Penrith area; we will provide you with the highest standard of care.
We cover a variety of different treatments that can help reduce gum swelling, as well as prevent further complications. Professional teeth cleanings, gingivitis and periodontitis treatment, tooth abscess drainage and more! We also share expert tips on how to keep your mouth healthy and prevent gum issues before they ever begin.
Preventive care is one of the most important services that we offer as it allows you to maintain oral health over the long term. If you are suffering from swollen gums, call Bella Dental today to book your appointment and allow us to set you straight on the road to a healthier smile.
Read More: Swelling Of The Gums Due To Ear Infection? Bella Dental Penrith has the Solutions
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FAQs
1. What can I do if my gums are swollen?
If your gums are swollen, you need to see a dentist to find out why. Gum disease, infection, or other oral health issues could cause swollen gums. Your dentist will recommend the best treatment based on the cause.
2. Do swollen gums go away on their own?
Sometimes, mild gum swelling can resolve with
better oral hygiene. But, in the case that the swelling continues or gets worse, it is crucial to consult with a dentist in order to avoid complication.
3. How often should I see the dentist to avoid swollen gums?
Ensure that you visit the dentist once every six months to maintain healthy gums and teeth. Healthy gums can result from keeping up with cleanings and to remove hard plaque and tartar buildup that leads to gum disease.
4. Is it normal for gums to swell during pregnancy?
Yes! Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to swollen gums. It’s essential to keep up with oral hygiene and regularly see your dentist throughout this time.
5. Is poor oral hygiene what causes swollen gums?
Yes, fail to brush and floss properly and plaque builds and irritates gums, leading to swelling. Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent gum disease.
- When should I see a doctor for swollen gums?
However, if your swollen gums come with pain, pus or fever, you should get a dentist immediately. These symptoms could signal a more serious condition such as a gum abscess or infection.
