Home remedy for red swollen gums
Gentle cleaning may calm swollen gums, but persistent redness needs an examination for gum disease or infection.
The short answer
Swelling is inflammation of the gingiva around teeth. Plaque, trapped food, trauma, gum disease, or a tooth infection can cause it.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Brush gently with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth. A warm salt-water rinse may soothe irritation, but do not apply aspirin, alcohol, or peroxide.
What can you do next?
Seek care for persistent or worsening swelling, pus, fever, facial swelling, severe pain, or trouble swallowing or breathing.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask whether the problem is gingivitis, a periodontal pocket, or infection from a tooth, and whether probing or an X-ray is needed.
Frequently asked questions
What happens at a dental appointment?
The dentist reviews the history, examines the mouth, and uses targeted tests such as probing, photographs, or an X-ray when indicated.
Can I wait and see?
Observation may suit a mild improving symptom, but persistence or worsening warrants an examination.