Inflamed and painful gums
The gums are inflamed and painful when gingival tissue is swollen, red, tender, or bleeding, usually from plaque irritation or another local problem.
What is the direct answer?
The gums are inflamed and painful when gingival tissue is swollen, red, tender, or bleeding, usually from plaque irritation or another local problem.
What does this question mean?
Plaque bacteria irritate gingiva, while trapped food, trauma, medicines, hormonal changes, or infection can affect a local area.
What can you do next?
Gently brush the gumline with a soft brush and clean between teeth daily. Avoid tobacco and harsh scrubbing, and arrange an examination so deposits or another cause can be treated.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt care for pus, fever, a loose tooth, severe pain, or facial swelling. Swelling that affects swallowing or breathing needs emergency medical help.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether this is gingivitis, periodontitis, an abscess, trauma, or a medicine-related change, and which cleaning and treatment plan fits the findings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main point?
The gums are inflamed and painful when gingival tissue is swollen, red, tender, or bleeding, usually from plaque irritation or another local problem.
What should I do now?
Gently brush the gumline with a soft brush and clean between teeth daily. Avoid tobacco and harsh scrubbing, and arrange an examination so deposits or another cause can be treated.