Gums feel swollen
Swollen gums are enlarged or puffy gingiva, commonly caused by plaque irritation, trapped debris, mouth breathing, medicines, or a local tooth problem.
Why do my gums feel swollen or puffy?
Swollen gums are enlarged or puffy gingiva, commonly caused by plaque irritation, trapped debris, mouth breathing, medicines, or a local tooth problem.
What changes can swelling cause in the gums?
The gingiva can look red, rounded, shiny, or enlarged when fluid and inflammatory cells collect in the tissue.
What can contribute to swollen gums?
Plaque, tartar, food impaction, hormonal changes, mouth breathing, some medicines, and infection around a tooth can contribute.
When should swollen gums be checked by a dentist?
Brush along the gumline with a soft brush, clean between teeth, and arrange a professional cleaning if hardened tartar is present.
What should I ask about persistent gum swelling?
Seek prompt care for spontaneous bleeding, pus, fever, facial swelling, loose teeth, or swelling that does not settle.
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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.