My gums look swollen
Swollen gums are usually inflamed from plaque, but a trapped irritant, medication effect, hormonal change, or dental infection can also cause them.
The short answer
Gingival swelling is an increase in the soft tissue around teeth. Plaque-related gingivitis is common, while localized swelling can follow trapped food, trauma, an erupting tooth, a periodontal pocket, or an abscess at the tooth root.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Brush gently along the gumline twice daily and clean between the teeth with floss or an interdental brush. Do not pierce a lump or place aspirin on the gum; arrange an examination if the swelling does not improve with careful cleaning.
What can you do next?
Book dental care when swelling lasts, spreads, bleeds repeatedly, or makes chewing difficult. Fever, facial swelling, pus, severe toothache, or trouble breathing or swallowing requires urgent help.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask which tissues are enlarged, whether there is a periodontal pocket or tooth infection, and whether a professional cleaning, filling repair, root canal, extraction, or gum treatment is indicated. Ask which home-cleaning tool fits the spaces.
Frequently asked questions
Could this have more than one cause?
Yes. Similar symptoms can arise from different teeth, gum tissues, appliances, medicines, or medical conditions, so examination identifies the cause.
What information helps at an appointment?
Note when it began, what makes it worse, visible changes, medicines, recent dental work, and whether it is changing.