There are a few important parts of your mouth. Of course, the teeth. They come in all different shapes and sizes, and you brush them every day to keep them clean. But there’s something equally important: your gums.
Gums are the blood-filled tissues that cover your jawbone. They are usually pink in color, firm when touched, and covered in blood vessels. If the gums are swollen, this could be a sign of an infection or other disease.
If you have swollen gums, it’s time to act. There are three symptoms that show your gums are swollen: they are red, they may not be their normal pink color, and they cover a significant portion of your teeth. Whenever you notice a change in your gums, it is a good idea to see a dentist.
But the question is “What could be the possible causes of swollen gums?”.
In this blog post, we have shared a few common reasons for swollen gums.
Let’s start!
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Gingivitis is often brought on by poor oral hygiene and if left untreated can develop into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It occurs when your gums become irritated and swollen.
If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is the second stage of gum disease. It occurs when the connective tissue and bone that hold your teeth in place deteriorate, leading to tooth loss.
Therefore, if you see any of these symptoms, you must consult your nearby dentist.
2. Pregnancy
Pregnancy causes swollen gums due to the hormonal changes that occur during this time. When a woman is pregnant, her body produces higher levels of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones cause the gums to swell and increase in size.
So, it’s a good idea to contact your dentist if you are pregnant and have swollen gums.
3. Malnutrition
A common cause of swollen gums is malnutrition. If you don’t eat enough protein, vitamins, and minerals, your body will be unable to recover from injuries and your immune system will become compromised. This can result in swollen gums, as well as other medical conditions.
4. Infection
An infection can cause the gums to swell and become red, tender, and painful. In some cases, the gums will bleed easily when you brush your teeth or floss. The infection may spread under the skin around your gums, causing a pocket of pus. This pocket of pus is called an abscess.
Any kind of infection should not be left unnoticed. You must consult your nearby dentist immediately to cure your swollen gums.
If you have been experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms related to your gums, you must consult your nearby dentist to make sure that you act immediately. Your dentist may run a few tests to find out the exact reason for your gum swelling.
What possible treatments your dentist can go for?
Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics if the condition is caused by an infection. They may also recommend rinses to help prevent gingivitis and reduce plaque build-up. Toothpaste can help improve oral health as well.
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