Gum feels inflamed
Inflamed gums are swollen or tender gingival tissues, commonly related to plaque but sometimes caused by irritation or infection.
The short answer
Inflamed gums are swollen or tender gingival tissues, commonly related to plaque but sometimes caused by irritation or infection. They may look red, bleed during cleaning, feel sore, or make the gum edge appear enlarged.
How can plaque irritate the edge of the gum?
Plaque contains bacteria that can irritate the gingival margin when it remains on teeth. Food trapping, smoking, hormonal changes, ill-fitting restorations, dry mouth, and some medicines can also affect gum inflammation.
What can you do to calm inflamed gums?
Brush gently along the gumline twice daily and clean between teeth with floss or interdental brushes. Arrange a professional examination and cleaning if the swelling or bleeding does not settle with careful home cleaning.
When do inflamed gums need prompt dental care?
Seek prompt care for pus, severe pain, facial swelling, fever, a loose tooth, or difficulty opening the mouth. Recurrent inflammation also deserves an examination because gum disease can progress with limited discomfort.
What should you ask about the cause of gum inflammation?
Ask whether the inflammation is gingivitis, periodontitis, an abscess, or local irritation. Ask which cleaning method fits your gum measurements and whether a medicine, filling edge, or appliance is contributing.
Frequently asked questions
Can inflamed gums heal?
Early plaque-related gingivitis can improve when plaque is removed and contributing factors are addressed, but a dentist must assess persistent swelling.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding often reflects inflamed gum tissue, although trauma, infection, medicines, and other conditions can contribute.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.