Swollen Gums: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment

Swollen gums — also known as gingival swelling — are a common oral health issue that can range from mild puffiness to painful inflammation. While often caused by poor oral hygiene or gum disease, swollen gums can also be linked to infections, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying health conditions.

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🩺 What Are Swollen Gums?

Swollen gums occur when the gum tissue becomes inflamed, enlarged, and sometimes painful. This condition can affect a small area near one tooth or the entire gum line. Early treatment is important to prevent complications like gingivitis or periodontitis.

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🧾 Symptoms of Swollen Gums

• Puffy or enlarged gums

• Redness or dark discoloration

• Tenderness or pain

• Bleeding during brushing or flossing

• Bad breath (halitosis)

• Gum recession (in advanced stages)

• Pus discharge or sores (in cases of infection)

• Loose teeth (with chronic gum disease)

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❓ Causes of Swollen Gums

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

• Plaque buildup due to infrequent brushing and flossing

• Bacterial growth causing inflammation and irritation

2. Gingivitis

• The earliest stage of gum disease

• Reversible if treated early with proper dental care

3. Periodontitis

• Advanced gum disease with bone and tissue damage

• May lead to tooth loss if untreated

4. Infections

• Viral (herpes simplex), bacterial, or fungal (candida) infections

• Abscessed tooth or gum boils

5. Nutritional Deficiencies

• Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy)

• Lack of vitamin B complex or folic acid

6. Hormonal Changes

• Pregnancy, menstruation, or puberty can increase gum sensitivity

• “Pregnancy gingivitis” is common during the 2nd trimester

7. Dental Appliances

• Ill-fitting dentures, braces, or retainers can irritate the gums

8. Allergic Reactions

• To toothpaste, mouthwash, or dental materials

9. Systemic Conditions

• Diabetes, leukemia, or autoimmune diseases

• Certain medications (like phenytoin, cyclosporine, or calcium channel blockers)

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🔍 Types of Gum Swelling

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🧪 Diagnosis

A dentist will conduct:

• Oral examination

• Dental X-rays – to assess bone loss or abscesses

• Gum pocket measurements – to evaluate gum health

• Medical history review

• Blood tests (if systemic condition suspected)

• Bacterial culture or biopsy (in rare, chronic cases)

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🧴 Treatment of Swollen Gums

🦷 1. Professional Dental Cleaning

• Removes plaque and tartar buildup

• Scaling and root planing for deeper cleaning in gum disease

💊 2. Medications

• Antibiotics – for bacterial infections

• Antifungal creams – for candidiasis

• Antiseptic mouth rinses – like chlorhexidine

• Pain relievers – ibuprofen or paracetamol

• Vitamin supplements – if deficiencies are involved

🏠 3. Home Remedies

• Saltwater rinse – soothes irritation and fights bacteria

• Hydrogen peroxide rinse (diluted) – reduces inflammation

• Turmeric paste – anti-inflammatory and antibacterial

• Clove oil – natural pain reliever

🧘 4. Lifestyle & Diet Modifications

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins C, D, and calcium

• Avoid smoking, sugary foods, and carbonated drinks

• Drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth

🏥 5. Surgical Treatments (for advanced cases)

• Gum flap surgery

• Gum grafts

• Laser therapy

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🚫 Prevention Tips

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush

• Floss daily to remove debris between teeth

• Visit your dentist every 6 months for checkups and cleanings

• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol

• Replace toothbrush every 3–4 months

• Use fluoride toothpaste and a gentle antiseptic mouthwash

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📅 When to See a Dentist

Seek immediate care if you experience:

• Gum swelling lasting more than 1 week

• Pus discharge or foul odor

• Loose teeth

• Fever or swollen lymph nodes

• Bleeding gums not linked to brushing

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✅ Conclusion

Swollen gums are often a sign of early gum disease but may also indicate other underlying issues like infections or nutritional deficiencies. With proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and timely treatment, you can prevent and reverse most gum problems — and protect your smile for life.

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🙋‍♀️ FAQs

Q: Can swollen gums go away on their own?
A: Mild cases may resolve with better hygiene, but persistent swelling needs dental care.

Q: What foods help reduce gum swelling?
A: Leafy greens, citrus fruits (in moderation), yogurt, and foods rich in omega-3 and vitamin C.

Q: Is gum swelling during pregnancy normal?
A: Yes. Hormonal changes can cause “pregnancy gingivitis,” but it should be monitored and managed by a dentist.