Gum red and swollen
Red, swollen gums commonly reflect plaque-related inflammation, but trapped food, trauma, medication effects, or infection can also be responsible.
What is the direct answer?
Red, swollen gums commonly reflect plaque-related inflammation, but trapped food, trauma, medication effects, or infection can also be responsible.
What does this question mean?
Healthy gingiva fits closely around teeth; inflammation increases blood flow and fluid in the tissue, causing redness, puffiness, tenderness, or bleeding.
What can you do next?
Brush twice daily with a soft brush, clean between teeth, and remove trapped food gently. Avoid smoking and harsh scrubbing while arranging an examination if the change persists.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt care for pus, severe pain, fever, rapidly increasing swelling, or swelling that affects the face, eye, swallowing, or breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling is gingivitis, periodontitis, a localized abscess, trauma, or a medication-related change, and whether professional cleaning is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my gums swollen around one tooth?
Food impaction, a cavity, a crack, a filling edge, or a localized infection can all cause this pattern.
Should I stop brushing swollen gums?
No. Clean gently, because leaving plaque at the gum edge can maintain inflammation.