Why would gums be swollen

Gingiva enlarge when blood vessels and immune cells respond to irritation. The pattern matters: general puffiness suggests a mouth-wide trigger, while swelling beside one tooth points toward local plaque, a foreign body, periodontal pocket, or dental abscess.

Brush along the gum margin with a soft brush and clean between teeth gently. Avoid smoking and do not cut, pierce, or squeeze the tissue; note when the swelling began and what makes it painful.

See a dentist if swelling lasts, bleeds easily, recurs, or is associated with bad breath or loose teeth. Same-day assessment is appropriate for fever, pus, facial spread, or trouble swallowing or breathing.

Ask whether the swelling is gingivitis, periodontitis, a medication effect, or an infection from a tooth. Ask about probing depths, X-rays, cleaning, and whether your medicines need review.