Did you know that your gums are a hive of bacteria? Do they become sore and swollen often? If so, you are probably experiencing chronic gum inflammation. But what can you do if you have gum problems? Fortunately, there are many effective ways to cure swollen gums. This article will discuss some of them so you can also care for your gums at home.
What Causes Swollen Gums?
1) Gingivitis:
Poor oral hygiene is one of the main reasons why people experience gum problems. Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. It is the inflammation of your gums due to a bacterial infection. This can happen if you do not regularly brush your teeth and tongue or have poor oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice daily will reduce the bacterial load in your mouth by 90%. Gingivitis symptoms can be modest, so many people don’t notice. However, if left untreated, it can become severe problems like periodontitis and tooth loss.
2) Pregnancy:
Gum swelling is common during pregnancy despite in people with excellent oral health. Hormones undergo a dramatic shift throughout pregnancy. The gums may become more susceptible to swelling due to increased blood circulation caused by these shifting hormones.
3) Infection:
Infections caused by fungi and viruses may result in swollen gums. Herpes can induce swollen gums, a disorder known as acute herpetic gingivostomatitis. Toxic yeast overgrowth in the mouth, known as thrush, can lead to swelling of the gums. In the absence of treatment for tooth decay, the gums might become inflamed.
4) Malnutrition:
Gum swelling can be caused by a lack of vitamins, particularly vitamins B and C. When it comes to keeping your teeth and gums healthy, vitamin C is a key player. Scurvy might develop if your vitamin C levels become too low. Anemia and gum disease are downsides of scurvy. Malnutrition is quite rare in developed countries. It’s more common among the elderly but can occur in anyone.
Also read, Swollen Gums: A Sign of a Tooth Infection?
How to Treat Swollen Gums?
A few easy changes to your everyday activity or dental hygiene can help alleviate some of the discomfort caused by gum swelling. Although there are many effective ways to cure swollen gums, a dentist is required if your gums are highly inflamed, sensitive, and irritated.
1) Do periodontal supervision: If the swelling isn’t too bad, you can employ a modest sort of deep tooth cleaning called periodontal maintenance. Every dentist will tell you to do this regularly.
2) Use antimicrobial medications, such as antibiotics.
3) The removal of plaque and bacteria from above and below the gum line is accomplished when you thoroughly clean your teeth.
4) Gum surgery: It’s only advised if the swelling is significant and there is extensive damage to the gums.
Home Remedies to Treat Swollen Gums:
1) Salt water rinse:
A salt water rinse is an effective way to cure swollen gums. Rinsing with salt water has been shown to reduce gum inflammation and speed healing. Mix half glass of lukewarm water with 1 tsp of salt.
Rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. Do not swallow. Spit it. Repeat the rinse every 5-6 hours.
2) It’s time for a brushing crash course:
Brushing too forcefully can cause damage to the gum tissue, which can lead to gum inflammation. Brushing with nylon bristles is also recommended by dentists to prevent gum damage. To finish, clean your teeth with a gentle back and forth motion.
3) Consumption of Nutritious Foods:
Maintaining good dental hygiene is easier if you eat a nutritious diet. Reduce your intake of sugary drinks and foods by increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables. Popcorn is a meal that can easily get lodged between your teeth and gums.
4) Floss regularly:
Flossing removes food particles between your teeth to prevent gum disease and irritated gums, promoting plaque and tartar buildup which is an effective way to cure swollen gums also.
To avoid sore gums, be gentle when flossing. Maintaining good oral hygiene requires practice, so don’t force the floss between your teeth and risk damaging your gums.
5) Turmeric Gel:
Curcumin, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound found in turmeric gel, may be of benefit. After cleaning your teeth, you can apply the mixture to the surface of your teeth. Wait 10 minutes after applying the gel to your gums before rinsing with water and spitting it out. Repeat this procedure two times daily until the inflammation has subsided.
Key Takeaways:
The best way to avoid the unpleasant symptoms of gum disease is to maintain good oral health. If you have any signs of inflammation, speak to your dentist or doctor. Visit the Best Dental Clinic in Ernakulam regularly to check your gum health and get treatment if needed.