One of the most important parts of your mouth is your gums. They are pink and firm, and they cover your jawbone. Gums are full of blood vessels, which might lead to swelling. 

Swelling near the tooth may begin to protrude or bulge, and swelling can spread to the point where it covers some of your teeth. Swollen gums appear red and are not their normal pink color.

If you have swollen gums, it’s time to act! First, swollen gums are usually red and may not be their normal pink color. Second, if your gums become so swollen that they cover your teeth, you should get them checked out. Third, any time you notice an issue with your gums, it is a good idea to see a dentist or doctor.

You may be wondering “what could be the possible causes of swollen gums?”.

In this blog post, we have shared a few common reasons for swollen gums.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the most common cause of swollen gums that can eventually lead to more serious conditions like periodontitis and tooth loss. The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup.

While the symptoms of gingivitis can be mild, this disease leaves you at risk for periodontitis, a more serious condition. Gingivitis most often occurs when people have poor oral hygiene and allow plaque to build upon their teeth over time. Plaque is made of bacteria and food particles that can lead to tartar buildup. The tartar buildup can cause gingivitis if it isn’t removed.

Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant, your hormones may be in high gear, which can mean that your gums may start swelling. The rush of hormones your body produces during pregnancy can cause your gums to become more easily irritated and can increase the blood flow in them. This increase in blood flow can lead to swelling and make your gums more vulnerable to bacteria that cause gum infections.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition and vitamin deficiency can cause gum swelling. Vitamins B and C are especially important in gum health and the prevention of tooth decay. If you don’t get enough vitamin B or C, you can develop scurvy. Scurvy can result in anemia and gum disease.

Infection

Fungal and viral infections can lead to swollen gums, especially when you have herpes or Thrush. Untreated dental decay can also lead to a localized gum swelling called a dental abscess.

The treatment for swollen gums

If your mouth has been sore for more than two weeks, please contact your nearby dentist. Dental professionals may ask about when the symptoms started, how often they occur, whether you’re pregnant, or if you’ve recently changed your diet. They may order blood tests to check for an infection.

Your dentist may suggest rinses to help prevent gingivitis and reduce plaque. They may also prescribe toothpaste and antibiotics depending on the cause of your swollen gums.

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