Dental question about observed-topic:swollen-gums

Swollen gums usually reflect inflammation from plaque, irritation, infection, or another local condition, and the cause determines treatment.

Inflamed gingiva can look red, puffy, tender, or bleed when brushed. A gum abscess, trapped food, erupting tooth, mouth injury, medication effect, or systemic illness can produce similar swelling.

Brush gently with a soft brush, clean between the teeth, and rinse with lukewarm salt water. Do not squeeze a swelling or place aspirin on the gum, because that can injure tissue.

Arrange a dental examination if swelling persists, recurs, bleeds easily, causes bad taste, or is linked with tooth pain. Urgent care is needed for facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing.

Ask whether the swelling is gingivitis, an abscess, trauma, or another condition. Ask whether an examination, periodontal probing, dental radiograph, or drainage is needed and how to prevent recurrence.