Puffy or Bleeding Inflamed Gums
The gums play an important role in our oral health. Made of firm, thick, fibrous tissue full of blood vessels, the gums cover the bones and teeth in the mouth. From time to time the gums will become puffy or inflamed. When the gums become irritated, it is usually where the gum meets the teeth. Inflamed gums appear red instead of the normal pink color and may be sensitive or painful. If your gums are inflamed, you may also notice that they bleed lightly when you brush or floss your teeth. What causes swelling of the gums? How do you treat puffy or bleeding gum? Here is more information to help you keep your gums healthy and strong.
What Causes Swollen Gums?
There are many causes of puffy, swollen, or inflamed gums. Most of these causes can be treated by a dentist once they are identified. Here are a few of the most common causes:
- Gingivitis: The most common cause of inflamed gums is the earliest stage of gum disease, called gingivitis. Most people don’t even know they have gingivitis because the symptoms are so mild. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious gum disease. Gingivitis is caused by plaque building up along the gumline and teeth. Plaque is made up of bacteria and food that buildup on the teeth over time. If this plaque is not removed, it will attack the gum tissue.
- Pregnancy: It is common for swollen gums to occur during pregnancy. Hormones that increase during pregnancy lead to an increase of blood flow and therefore swelling in the gums. These hormones can also impair the body’s ability to fight off bacteria. If you are pregnant and notice your gums swelling, it may be a good idea to schedule a visit to the dentist for an exam and routine cleaning.
- Poor Diet: A diet that is deficient in essential vitamins can cause swelling and inflammation in the gums. Vitamins are important to the maintenance and repair of the teeth and gums. It is important to eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in vitamins to keep your teeth healthy.
Treating Inflamed Gums
If you notice that your gums are puffy or bleeding for more than two weeks, you should call your dentist to set up an appointment. Your dentist will conduct a comprehensive exam and discuss your symptoms with you to help to determine the possible causes. Depending on what your dentist determines is the cause of your swollen gums, they will develop an appropriate treatment plan for you. Your treatment may include an oral rinse to help prevent gingivitis and reduce plaque or a specific brand of toothpaste. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to fight infection. If you have an extreme case of gingivitis, you may need a more invasive treatment. If you just recently noticed your puffy and inflamed gums, you can start treatment at home. Start by increasing your brushing and flossing. You can also rinse your mouth with saltwater solution to eliminate unwanted bacteria. Drinking extra water will help increase the production of saliva and weaken bacteria in the mouth.