Swollen gums can result from various problems, such as irritation, cavities, dental diseases, among others. The problem can resolve itself spontaneously, or perpetuate, taking the patient to the dentist's office to resolve the problem. Therefore, we have prepared a complete article, with everything you need to know about the problem.
Causes of swollen gums
Swollen gums are a problem that causes discomfort to patients, the most common reason for the problem being the presence of bacterial plaque, also known such as biofilm, resulting from failures in hygiene. However, several factors can influence the problem, such as age, stress, obesity, genetics and smoking. Other common causes are:
- Medications: some medications can cause gum problems, one of them being swelling. Therefore, in these cases, the ideal is to advise the patient to talk to the doctor for a solution.
- Gingivitis: the main cause of swollen gums is usually gingivitis. Therefore, a good way to avoid the problem is through proper oral hygiene.
- Poor nutrition: lack of vitamin C can be a reason for swollen gums.
- Dental braces or prosthetics: these are common causes of swollen gums.
- Untreated diabetes: Diabetes Mellitus is a condition that generates changes in the blood vessels, reducing the amount of nutrients that reach the gums, in addition making it difficult to remove waste, leading to greater risks of infections. Furthermore, this uncontrolled condition increases blood sugar levels, which leads to the proliferation of bacteria, which can also lead to inflammation and/or swelling of the gums.
- Pregnancy: hormonal changes are common at this stage and can trigger gum problems, such as swelling, for example. However, patients with these conditions must receive special attention, as they are not suitable for any treatment.
Periodontitis
Gingival inflammation is one of the first signs of periodontitis, and it can be the loosening of untreated gums. Therefore, one of the common symptoms of periodontitis is gingival swelling.
Understanding the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis is necessary, as it directly impacts the type of treatment. Therefore, gingivitis is the initial stage of gum inflammation, which is generally caused by the accumulation of biofilm in the region. This condition, when left untreated, can develop into periodontitis. It is concluded that periodontitis is the worsening of gingivitis, and both are causes of swollen gums.
Symptoms
Usually, the most common symptom of gum swelling is sensitivity. However, bad breath, mouth sores, pain and gum recession, can also be a warning of the problem.
Treatment
The best treatment for patients who complain of swollen gums is a routine of adequate oral hygiene care. After all, it is usually the increase in bacterial plaque that is the main cause of this problem, as it results in gingivitis.
Prevention for swollen gums
- Some instructions can be passed on to the patient with frequent complaints of the problem. Therefore, some measures to prevent the problem are:
- Improved oral hygiene and constant use of dental floss;
- Balanced and balanced diet;
- Mouthwash with water and salt to relieve swelling and pain;
- Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking;
- Recurring visits to the dentist.
- Swollen and painful gums
Pain can be one of the symptoms of swollen gums. Therefore, the patient's discomfort may indicate inflammation, and local edema is a symptom of it. After determining the real reason for the swelling and pain, appropriate treatment for the patient must be recommended.
How long do swollen gums last?
The duration of this problem will depend on the complexity of the frame. In the simplest cases, it is common for the entire process to last between one and two weeks at most. However, when cases are more serious, the problem can last for months, so please see your dentist if your gums are swollen for any length of time.