Puffy or Bleeding Inflamed Gums
Patients with swollen or inflamed gums often experience a great deal of discomfort and pain. While the most common cause of inflamed gums is gum disease, other factors like using the incorrect brushing technique, flossing, using tobacco, undergoing chemotherapy, and other components can also be the cause. Nearly half of adults in American have early signs of gum disease. One of the most common symptoms of gum disease is inflamed gums. Depending on the severity of the gum inflammation, the patient may be suffering from one of following types of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: an early, mild form of gum disease. Gum disease often results in inflamed gums which may bleed during routine activities such as brushing or flossing. Although gingivitis is not considered to be a serious form of gum disease, it is critical to promptly treat the disease to ensure it does not progress and cause further damage.
- Periodontitis: When gingivitis is not treated promptly and effectively, it can progress and become periodontitis. This is a more severe form of gum disease with more serious consequences. In cases of periodontitis, the inflammation of the gums is more chronic and the teeth can even become loose. This occurs because the decay begins to damage the tissue which holds the teeth in place. The treatment of periodontitis is critical for maintaining good oral health.
Treatment
Through early diagnosis and intervention, gum inflammation can be treated and reversed. The below steps can help in the treatment of inflamed gums, prevent reoccurrence and help to ensure a good oral hygiene is maintained:
- Balanced Diet: Consuming a balanced and nutritious diet helps to improve your overall gum health. It is also important to ensure you receive adequate amounts of Vitamin C and calcium as these vitamins are especially helpful in the prevention of swollen gums.
- Daily brushing: The teeth should be brushed at least twice each day and following the last meal or snack of the day. Ensure you are using the proper technique for brushing. Patients should avoid being too vigorous as it can damage and inflame the gums. A soft toothbrush should also be used in order to avoid damage to the gums. Use a gentle brushing motion to ensure the teeth are thoroughly cleaned.
- Flossing: Flossing the teeth regularly is important to remove food particles which can cause the build-up of plaque and tartar. When they are not removed, it can result in gum disease and gum inflammation. Carefully slide the floss between the teeth and avoid being forceful as it can cause damage to the gums.
- Mouth rinsing: Rinsing the mouth regularly aids in the removal of food particles, debris, and carbohydrates. All of which cause plaque and gum disease. It is especially important to rinse out your mouth after eating food or consuming sugary beverages.
- Stress management: A patient’s hormone levels can be impacted when they experience high levels of stress. The hormone cortisol can specifically be effected which causes gum inflammation and swelling.
- Toothpaste: Patients who have sensitive teeth may benefit from using a specially formulated sensitive toothpaste. Some patients may also benefit from anti-gingivitis toothpaste which aids in neutralizing plaque and offers a deeper clean. Harmful plaque bacteria located near the gum line weakens the enamel. A healthy mouth starts with healthy gums.
Schedule an appointment with your dentist right away if you are experiencing painful, swollen or inflamed gums. The dentist can help identify the underlying cause and find an effective treatment plan.