Chlorhexidine (Peridex, PerioChip, PerioGard) is an antimicrobial used to control plaque and gingivitis in your mouth or in periodontal pockets. This medication is available as a mouth rinse, or as a gelatin-filled chip that's placed in pockets after root planing. It releases the medication over 7 days or so.
You can try pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen. You can find these at your local drug store. For more effectiveness, you can combine the painkillers with other home treatments.
The acute phase of gingivitis lasts on average 2-3 days but, starting immediately the antibiotic therapy, it can pass within a week. Clearly the duration of gingivitis varies from case to case and also depends on the treatments implemented. Fortunately, there are many ways to help stop the progression of gum disease.
Tetracycline antibiotics – Antibiotics which include tetracycline hydrochloride, doxycycline, and minocycline are the primary drugs used in periodontal treatment. They have antibacterial properties, reduce inflammation and block collagenase (a protein which destroys the connective tissue).
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.
However, swollen gums that last for longer than 1–2 days may be a sign of an underlying issue such as gingivitis,periodontitis, or a tooth abscess. If swelling occurs alongside a fever, a person should contact their dentist immediately.
Avoid things that can irritate your gums such as mouthwashes, alcohol, and tobacco. Change your toothpaste brand and stop using mouthwashes if sensitivity to these dental products is causing your swollen gums. Brush and floss your teeth regularly. See a periodontist or dentist at least every 6 months.
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.
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.
The most common cause of inflammation is gum disease, but poor oral hygiene, improper brushing or flossing, tobacco use, medical treatments, hormone changes, and irritation from dental appliances such as dentures or braces can also play a role.
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.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease (periodontal disease). It develops when plaque, tartar and bacteria build up on your teeth, causing red, swollen, bleeding gums.
Typically sore gums will go away with time, but if additional symptoms do appear, then it may be best to consult with a dentist.
The Dangers of Gingivitis
Specifically, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis, a far more serious condition. Periodontitis or gum disease poses more risk than just losing your teeth. If left untreated, the inflammation and infection can spread to your lymph nodes, your eyes, and even to your heart.
Tetracycline antibiotics – Antibiotics which include tetracycline hydrochloride, doxycycline, and minocycline are the primary drugs used in periodontal treatment. They have antibacterial properties, reduce inflammation and block collagenase (a protein which destroys the connective tissue).
A Vitamin Deficiency
Deficiencies in vitamin C and B vitamins are the most common vitamin deficiencies that can result in swollen gums. If you have swollen gums and you do not eat a very nutritious diet, you may want to consider that a vitamin deficiency could be the problem.
Periodontitis (per-e-o-don-TIE-tis), also called gum disease, is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue around teeth. Without treatment, periodontitis can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. This can cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis is common but can usually be prevented.
In addition to brushing and flossing, a mouthwash can help to eliminate remaining harmful bacteria. Peroxide can act to oxidize the oral environment which can lead to inactivating bacteria and viral particles, while alcohol can inactivate the proteins that some bacteria and viruses need to survive.
Salt is a natural disinfectant that helps with gum disease in a few ways: It removes loose debris and cleans the teeth and gums. Reduces inflammation and swelling and soothes the gums. It helps to get rid of decay and plaques.
ARESTIN® (minocycline hydrochloride) is an antibiotic that kills the bacteria that cause the infection. It's placed directly in the infected areas—or “pockets”—in your gums. It is typically applied after scaling and root planning or during a periodontal maintenance treatment when active infection is discovered.