Anti inflammatory for swollen gums
Anti-inflammatory tablets may reduce swollen-gum discomfort temporarily, but cleaning, drainage, or tooth treatment may be needed for the cause.
The short answer
An anti-inflammatory tablet may reduce pain and swelling from inflamed gums, but it does not remove plaque, calculus, a trapped irritant, or an abscess. Treatment must address the cause of the swelling.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Swollen gums contain inflamed gingival tissue with increased fluid and blood flow. Causes include plaque-related gingivitis, periodontal pockets, trauma, food impaction, medication effects, and infection near a tooth.
What can you do next?
Clean gently at the gumline and between teeth, rinse with plain water after food, and use medicine only as directed on its label. Do not squeeze a gum swelling or apply irritating substances to it.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt dental care for a localized lump, pus, severe pain, fever, facial swelling, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. Swelling that persists also needs assessment even if tablets reduce discomfort.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling comes from the gum, tooth pulp, or a periodontal pocket. Ask which medicine is compatible with your conditions and whether drainage, cleaning, or dental treatment is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I pop the swelling?
No. Puncturing it can injure tissue and spread contamination; a dentist should identify and treat the source.
Why did the swelling return after medicine?
The underlying plaque, periodontal pocket, or tooth infection may still be present.