Swollen gums are a common problem with many possible causes. Sometimes the cause is simple, such as food trapped between teeth. Other times, it indicates gum disease, infection or another health issue. Knowing the likely causes helps you decide what to do next.
Gingivitis caused by plaque build-up is the most common cause of swollen gums. Gums may look red, puffy and bleed when brushed.
Food such as popcorn husks, seeds or meat fibres can become wedged under the gum, causing localised swelling. Rough fillings or crowns can also irritate gums.
Pregnancy, puberty and some medications can make gums more prone to swelling.
A gum abscess or tooth infection can cause sudden, painful, localised swelling, sometimes with pus or a bad taste.
Gentle brushing, cleaning between teeth and warm salt water rinses may help mild swelling. See a dentist if swelling lasts more than a week, is painful, or is accompanied by fever or pus.
Partially erupted wisdom teeth are a common cause of swollen gums at the back of the mouth. A flap of gum can cover part of the tooth, trapping food and bacteria and leading to an infection called pericoronitis. Symptoms include swelling, pain, bad taste, difficulty opening the mouth and sometimes swollen glands. Rinsing with warm salt water and cleaning carefully can help mild cases, but you should see your dentist. They may clean the area, prescribe medication if needed, and discuss whether the wisdom tooth should be removed to prevent repeated infections.
People with braces often experience swollen gums, because brackets and wires make cleaning more difficult and allow plaque to build up. Gums may become puffy and bleed easily, and in some cases may grow over brackets. Brushing carefully around brackets, using interdental brushes and a water flosser, and attending regular hygiene appointments help reduce swelling. Your dentist may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash. If swelling is severe or persists, your orthodontist may need to adjust treatment. Good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment protects gum health and ensures the best results.
A balanced diet supports healthy gums. Vitamin C is essential for gum tissue, and severe deficiency can cause swollen, bleeding gums, although this is rare today. Vitamin D, calcium and other nutrients also play a role in oral health. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins provides the nutrients your gums need. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks reduces plaque build-up and inflammation. Staying hydrated supports saliva flow, which helps protect gums. If you have concerns about your diet or nutritional deficiencies, speak to your doctor or a nutrition professional.
Swelling around a dental implant or crown should not be ignored. Around implants, it may indicate peri-implant mucositis or peri-implantitis, inflammatory conditions that can lead to bone loss if untreated. Around crowns, swelling may be caused by plaque build-up at the crown margin, excess cement, or a poorly fitting edge. Cleaning carefully around restorations with interdental brushes or a water flosser can help prevent problems. If swelling persists for more than a few days, or is accompanied by bleeding, pain or a bad taste, book an appointment so your dentist can assess and treat the cause early.
Trapped food, infection or an abscess are common causes of sudden swelling.
Mild swelling from gingivitis may improve with better cleaning, but persistent swelling needs a check.
Yes, gently, with a soft toothbrush.
Book a check-up if your gums remain swollen. Learn more about professional teeth cleaning in Al Ain.
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