Inflamed gum tissue
Inflamed gum tissue is usually red, swollen, tender, or prone to bleeding because plaque irritates the gum margin.
The short answer
Inflamed gums commonly reflect plaque and calculus at the gumline, though food impaction, smoking, hormonal change, medications, or infection can contribute. The tissue may bleed during brushing or feel puffy.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Brush twice daily with a soft brush, clean between teeth, and arrange professional removal of calculus if home cleaning cannot remove it. Avoid stopping brushing just because the gums bleed.
What can you do next?
See a dentist for persistent bleeding, pus, bad taste, recession, loose teeth, or swelling. Facial swelling, fever, or severe pain warrants urgent care.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask whether the inflammation is limited to gingivitis, whether periodontal pockets are present, and which cleaning method suits your gum anatomy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main cause?
Plaque contains bacteria and sits where the tooth meets the gingiva; the immune response makes the tissue vascular and swollen.
What should happen next?
Ask whether the inflammation is limited to gingivitis, whether periodontal pockets are present, and which cleaning method suits your gum anatomy.