When we see our smile in the mirror, there are more times when we appreciate our teeth than when we even notice our gums. But the state of this tissue is fundamental to Oral Health. There are cases in which situations that begin as swollen gums can even result in the loss of teeth. Therefore, it is very important to know how to identify the signs you receive when Your gums aren't feeling well.
If you notice that your gums are swollen, inflamed or have a protuberance, you should be alert, but you don't need to worry. In fact, puffiness is a sign that there is an inflammatory process occurring in your gums, but, thanks to advances in dentistry, and increasingly greater specialization of oral hygiene products, the situation will be treated or may even be completely reversed. However, you should not ignore the signs: if you notice an abnormality in your gums, the first step should be to seek professional help to correctly identify the problem.
There are several issues that can lead to swollen gums:
Poor brushing – Applying too much force to the toothbrush when washing them or using brushes that are too stiff can cause damage to the gums and lead to inflammation. Use soft brushes and check with your Dentist or Oral Hygienist if your brushing technique is the most appropriate.
Plaque and tartar – The accumulation of plaque and tartar near the gum line It will end up triggering inflammatory processes and may even lead to more serious oral problems.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis – Unfortunately, gum disease is very common and invariably requires specialized care. If you have swollen gums and notice that it is a persistent problem, or if your teeth are mobile, do not postpone your visit to the Dentist. The evolution of these diseases could result in serious consequences for your health, especially if you have other chronic problems, such as diabetes.
Smoking habits – If you smoke, it is natural that you will be affected by several negative consequences. Not just in the mouth, but throughout the body. In the gums, the changes that occur are among the most evident: discoloration, inflammation, among the development of other oral health problems.
Abscesses – Abscesses are pockets of pus in your mouth. They are often accompanied by pain with our without chewing. If you suspect you have an abscess in your mouth, be aware that failure to treat it can result in consequences as extreme as the loss of one or more teeth.
Sores – They are an unpleasant situation, but one that we often underestimate. A cold sore is relatively easy to recognize even without professional help: they resemble small bumps with a whitish center and reddish edges. Having a cold sore or other occasionally is perfectly normal and doesn't require much care. Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash can alleviate and cure the problem. But if you have canker sores in abundance and frequently, you should not remain indifferent to the situation. Canker sores are an immune response and, when they are persistent, they are a sign that something is not right.
Pregnancy – Anyone who has been through pregnancy knows better than anyone that swelling is a common issue. In pregnant women, due to all the hormonal changes, such as an increase in progesterone, it is normal for there to be an increase in blood volume in the gums. In principle, having swollen gums during pregnancy does not mean there is a problem. However, pregnant women should not stop being monitored by a dentist during pregnancy. Nor should they neglect their oral hygiene habits.
Ill-adapted devices and prostheses – Ill-adapted removable devices can put pressure on places they shouldn't be. Ending up injuring the gums and causing edema and inflammation. The same goes for dental prosthetics. If you experience bleeding or severe discomfort, speak to your dentist so that he or she can make the necessary adjustments to the materials.
Dental treatments – Some procedures performed in the dentist's chair trigger inflammatory responses.