Gum swelling can occur as the result of an infection in the mouth, most commonly occurring in the teeth. So what are swollen gums and why do they happen? Read on to learn more about the causes of gum swelling and whether or not it’s time to visit your dentist!
What are swollen gums?
Swelling around your teeth, also known as pericoronitis, can be a warning sign that you have an infection. This is one of several common tooth problems that cause swelling. However, it’s important to note that swollen gums are not unique to tooth infections; gum inflammation is also associated with other conditions such as cold sores or gingivitis. Determining whether you have pericoronitis and what’s causing it will help you develop an appropriate treatment plan—and there are some things you can do right now to improve your symptoms until then.
Why do you get swollen gums?
Swelling in your gums could be an indication that you’re getting a tooth infection. So if you have constant jaw pain, sensitivity to cold or hot liquids, or notice your gums bleeding when brushing, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. But how can you tell if swelling is caused by an infection or something else? According to one dentist, swelling on its own doesn’t necessarily mean you’re dealing with an infection—it could just be normal swelling due to trauma or it could even be due to dehydration. The only way to know for sure is by consulting with your dentist who can perform tests and x-rays.
Is it always an infection?
It’s possible to have swollen gums without an infection. For example, some women may experience swelling when they use hormonal contraceptives or during pregnancy. In addition, you can get swollen gums if you haven’t been flossing regularly and plaque has built up on your teeth over time. The bottom line is that before concluding that you have an infection, talk to your dentist about what’s causing your mouth pain and inflammation. You may need regular checkups with a hygienist or other dental professionals to properly manage gum health and avoid future infections.
How can you tell if your gums are infected?
If you notice that your gums are swollen and red, it’s possible that you have an infection. However, there are several other things to consider before assuming that you have an infection. For instance, does your swollen gum feel tender or hot to touch? Do you have a fever? Are you having any pain in your mouth or face? Swelling is one sign of an infection but there are others that should be considered as well. It’s important to visit your dentist if you think something might be wrong with your teeth so they can determine what is causing your symptoms.
Should you see a dentist about swollen gums?
Though usually harmless, inflammation is often an early sign of gum disease and tooth infection. If you notice your gums becoming swollen and red after flossing or brushing your teeth, it could be a sign that plaque is building up on your teeth. The only way to know for sure is to visit your dentist; they can perform an examination and let you know if there’s any cause for concern. But don’t worry too much—swollen gums are very common and typically go away within a few days without treatment. However, as with most things in life, prevention is key. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once daily to avoid gum problems in the future. And if you do start experiencing swelling again, contact your dentist right away so they can help diagnose what’s causing it.
What should you do if it’s really an infection?
First and foremost, if you’re experiencing swollen gums that are sensitive to touch, bleeding gums or mouth pain when chewing or drinking hot liquids, you should contact your dentist right away. This may be a sign of an infection in one or more teeth. Any number of dental conditions can cause swelling in your mouth, including cavities and gum disease like gingivitis (which is inflammation around certain parts of your gums). Your dentist will know what’s causing it and how to treat it.