Dental question about taxonomy:symptom:swollen-gums
Swollen gums usually reflect irritation or inflammation, but infection, gum disease, trauma, and medicines can also cause them.
The short answer
Swollen gums are enlarged, puffy gum tissue, most often caused by plaque-related inflammation, but a local infection, trapped food, trauma, or another medical factor can also be responsible.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The gums are the soft tissue that surrounds and seals the teeth where they meet the jawbone. Swelling means this tissue has become inflamed or enlarged; redness, tenderness, bleeding during brushing, bad breath, or a change in the gum line may occur with it.
Common causes include plaque and tartar at the gum margin, gingivitis, periodontitis, food or a foreign object lodged between teeth, a cavity or gum abscess, a poorly fitting restoration, vigorous brushing, and irritation from tobacco or dental appliances. Hormonal changes, some medicines, and certain general health conditions can also contribute.
What can you do next?
Brush gently along the gum line with a soft toothbrush and clean between the teeth with floss or an interdental brush. Rinse with lukewarm water, avoid squeezing a lump or placing aspirin on the gum, and note where the swelling started, how long it has lasted, and whether it bleeds or drains.
A dentist examines the gums, measures the spaces around selected teeth with a periodontal probe, checks for plaque, tartar, decay, loose fillings, and drainage, and may take dental radiographs when a tooth or bone problem is suspected. Treatment may include professional removal of plaque and calculus, improved home cleaning, a filling or replacement restoration, drainage, or periodontal treatment according to the cause.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange a dental examination if swelling persists, returns, bleeds easily, causes pain, or is accompanied by gum recession, loose teeth, pus, or a bad taste. Seek urgent care for rapidly increasing facial or mouth swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or difficulty opening the mouth.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask what is causing the swelling, whether the tissue shows gingivitis or periodontitis, whether a tooth or restoration is involved, and whether an X-ray or periodontal measurements are needed. Also ask how to clean the area, what treatment is recommended, and which changes should prompt an earlier review.
Frequently asked questions
Can swollen gums heal on their own?
Mild irritation may improve when plaque and trapped food are removed gently, but persistent or recurring swelling needs an examination to identify and treat its cause.
Why do my gums swell around one tooth?
A single swollen area may be caused by trapped food, local gum inflammation, a cavity, a cracked tooth, an irritating restoration, or an abscess near that tooth.
Should I brush swollen gums?
Yes, brush the area gently with a soft toothbrush and clean between the teeth, unless a dental professional has given you different instructions.