When caring for your oral health, you may just think of keeping your teeth healthy by preventing cavities. However, your pearly whites are not the only part of it. Your gums, the anchor place of your teeth, also play a very significant role in your dental health. As a matter of fact, they can even affect your overall well-being too! If you have noticed that your gums are not at their best, such as being swollen, inflamed, or red, it’s best to visit your dentist for treatment as soon as possible. Read on to learn about the causes of swollen gums and what you can do to help them return to health!
What Causes Swollen Gums?
If your gums are swollen, it’s important to be aware that it could be a sign of an issue that needs to be addressed. There could be various reasons why the soft tissues of your mouth are not in their normal state, including:
- Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease. An infection in your gums causes them to become swollen and irritated. A poor oral health routine is a very common cause of gingivitis.
- Malnutrition – Being deficient in certain vitamins (such as B and C) can cause your gums to swell.
- Oral Infection – Oral medical conditions, like herpes or thrush, can lead to swollen gums.
- Pregnancy – Women experience a rush of hormones produced by the body during pregnancy. They can increase the blood flow to the gums, leading to swelling.
How Your Dentist Can Help
Has it been more than two weeks since you first noticed your gums were inflamed? If so, it would be time to visit your dentist. By conducting a thorough oral examination, they can determine the cause of the inflammation and what treatment options would be best for you. They may even take X-rays to see if any bone loss has occurred.
Each case will vary but your dentist may prescribe an oral rinse to prevent plaque and reduce gingivitis. They may even recommend using a specific brand of toothpaste or taking antibiotics to alleviate your symptoms. If it is verified that you are in some stage of gum disease, your dentist will begin periodontal therapy to heal your gums. The key is to go to your dentist as soon as possible so your issue doesn’t become worse. Advanced stages of gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
What Can You Do to Prevent Swollen Gums?
The best way to prevent any issues with your mouth, including your gums, is by consistently practicing a good oral hygiene routine. Be sure to brush twice a day, floss at least once daily, and rinse regularly with an ADA-approved mouthwash. These habits will help prevent plaque buildup that leads to gum issues.
Additionally, be sure to go to your dental cleanings and checkups every six months. While brushing and flossing help tremendously to maintain good oral health, plaque can still harden and become tartar. Your dentist can clean those hard-to-reach places to keep your entire smile healthy and happy!
About the Practice
Rensch and Laster Family and Cosmetic Dentistry are eager to help you keep your teeth and gums in their best condition through the expertise of their two dentists. With a focus on building relationships and lasting healthy smiles, their comprehensive care starts with the best preventive care possible. They provide periodontal therapy for any stage of gum disease that you may be in. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (919) 561-6393.