Gum disease is the most common cause. But inflamed gums can point to other health conditions too, like diabetes, hormone changes and vitamin deficiencies. If you have swollen gums that last longer than two weeks, let your healthcare provider know.
INFLAMED GUM CAUSES
Generally, the inflammation associated with gum disease is not sore, but if it's left untreated it can progress and worsen into periodontitis, a more severe, irreversible stage of gum disease that can eventually cause tooth loss.
In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. In its more serious form, called periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or even fall out. Periodontal disease is mostly seen in adults.
Rinsing with salt water 2-3 times a day can be effective in battling a gum infection. Be careful to not rinse with salt water too often, as this can cause the salt to affect your tooth enamel. Other homemade mouthwash combinations can also be effective, such as lemongrass and oil, aloe vera, and tea tree oil.
In most cases, swelling in the gums should go away after 1 or 2 days. For example, if you have food stuck in your teeth, or have used a mouthwash that irritated your gums the swelling should not last long.
Swollen gums may be caused by: Inflamed gums (gingivitis) Infection by a virus or fungus. Malnutrition.
Untreated gingivitis will progress into periodontitis, which is a more severe stage of gum disease. The infection and pockets deepen while eating away at your jaw until your teeth become loose and fall out.
Typically sore gums will go away with time, but if additional symptoms do appear, then it may be best to consult with a dentist.
Swollen gums around one tooth can occur for many reasons, including poor dental hygiene and periodontal disease. People should visit the dentist if the swelling persists for more than a week. An earlier appointment is necessary if a person suspects a tooth abscess.
If you have gingivitis, which is the earliest form of gum disease, you'll likely notice inflamed, red, swollen, and bleeding gums. In this stage, the infection is still reversible. In contrast, periodontitis is a far more severe condition characterized by deep pockets that form in between teeth.
Acidic items like soda, apple cider vinegar, and limes can irritate the inflamed gums and contribute to more gum recession and irritation. Highly acidic things also erode the tooth's enamel, exposing it to tooth decay. It's best to avoid or limit acidic items.
Stress increases your risk of gingivitis and gum disease.
And when you're stressed, you release a hormone called cortisol, which can deplete your immune system and allow bacteria to thrive. These bacteria then wreak havoc on your gums, causing them to become inflamed.
When gums swell around a single tooth in this way, it usually indicates an infection. This is called an abscessed tooth, and it can be very painful. If left untreated, it is possible for the infection to spread, leading to more serious dental problems.
Sore gums can be a sign that you brush your teeth too hard. Other times, braces or dentures can irritate your gums. Hormone changes related to your period, pregnancy, or menopause can also led to swollen,painful gums. Gum pain can be a sign of a more serious problem like gum disease.
Periodontal disease has its roots in infections of the gum tissue caused by bacteria on the surface of your teeth. If left untreated, it can cause tissue loss as well as tooth loss. However, like many types of infection, periodontal disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics.
Herpes simplex gingivostomatitis (jin-juh-voe-sto-ma-tie-tis) is inflammation of the gums and lips caused by the herpes virus – the same virus that later causes cold sores. This inflammation damages the skin, resulting in painful ulcers in the mouth and blisters on the lips.
Ibuprofen (Ibuprin, Advil, Motrin)
Used for pain relief and to decrease gingival inflammation.
How Long Should I Rinse with Salt Water for Swollen Gums? You should rinse with salt water between 15-30 seconds, and you're not supposed to swallow it.
Research proves a saltwater rinse containing 0.9 percent to 1.8 percent sodium chloride helps heal the gums. In addition, disinfectant properties are present in salt, helping kill harmful bacteria in the mouth while easing swelling and pain in the infected gums.
Salt water rinse happens to be the universal medicine for gums' pain! One of the most straightforward and accessible hacks on our list, salt water not only targets the origin of pain but also acts as an antibiotic for gum infection. As a result, it helps reduce the pain and spread of disease.
One of the primary symptoms is that gums will be red and swollen. They will also be tender to the touch. While gingivitis may result in some minor swelling or darkening of the color of the gums, an infection will result in even more swelling and deeper redness. Bleeding gums is another sign of infection.