Swollen Gums, Causes and Treatment
Swollen gums, also known as Gingival Swelling, are abnormally enlarged, bulging or protruding gums. The commonly affected part of the gums is the gum shaped like triangles located between adjacent teeth.
Sometimes the gums may significantly swell and hide the teeth altogether. Here are some of the reasons for abnormally swollen gums:
- Infection by a fungus or virus. This would usually result in an inflammatory response of the body that causes the gums to swell and increase in size.
- Gingivitis, also known as inflammation of the gums, basically results in swelling of the gums.
- Poorly fitted dentures could also irritation in the gums causing it to swell.
- Scurvy or vitamin C deficiency could also be a reason for the swelling in your gums. Swelling of the gums is usually the primary sign and symptom of an individual having scurvy.
- Swollen gums during 1st or 2nd trimester of pregnancy: Physiological changes in a woman bearing a child could sometimes lead to swelling of the gums. This happens due to the decrease of calcium and hormonal imbalance of the woman during pregnancy.
How to Prevent Gum Swelling
Swollen gums are distressing and can adversely impact your lifestyle.
- Observe proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth three times a day. Floss and gargle with a mouthwash.
- Eat healthy and nutritious foods.
- Avoid causing irritation to your gums. They are highly sensitive, so take good care of your oral cavity.
- When fixing new dentures, make sure that they fit comfortably and snugly.
- If there are signs of infection or tooth decay, promptly consult your dentist and treat the underlying condition.
- Have a regular dental checkup.
Home Remedies and Treatment for Swollen Gum
Gum swelling is irritating, painful and a complete nuisance. There are a few home remedies you can try to treat the condition:
- Make a paste of salt and ginger. Rub the paste on the affected areas of your gums. Gargle with room temperature water in about 20 minutes.
- Gargle with glassful of warm water and lemon juice. Do this at least twice a day.
- For immediate (but temporary) relief from the painful swelling of the gums, take some warm salt water and swirl it around your buccal cavity.