Taking care of your teeth is essential to maintain oral hygiene. Your gums also contribute to your oral well-being. If your gums are swollen, it could mean a lot of things. From impacted teeth to serious dental issues, gum inflammation is an issue that should not be ignored. In most cases, gum selling results from bacterial plaque that builds up along the gum line and on the tooth surface. This buildup causes cavities and gum infections. However, gum infection is not the only culprit of swollen gums. There are other reasons your gum is swelling. If you have this issue, it is advisable to seek private dental services in London to know the origin of the problem and find the best treatment. In the meantime, here are the leading causes of swollen gums.
Leading Causes of Swollen Gums
Oral Infections
The main culprit of swollen gums is infections. Gingivitis is the swelling of gums, the first stage of periodontal disease. In a severe condition, the infection leads to gum or jawbone damage. Fungal and viral infections compromise the health of your gums, irritating. STIs like oral thrush and herpes could also cause gum swelling.
Tooth Impaction
Tooth impaction could also cause swollen gums. When the molars cannot break through the skin and grow on the gum line, they cause swelling as they push upwards. Impacted wisdom teeth also cause pain. If teeth impaction is causing severe pain and gum inflammation, it will be best to seek oral surgery. Tooth impaction causes bleeding gums, swollen gums and jaw, bad breath, unusual taste in the mouth, and pain in the jaw.
Hormones
A change in hormonal levels could also lead to gum swelling. Changes in hormones during pregnancy, puberty, menstruation, and menopause alter many body functions, including increasing blood flow to the gums. The gums get easily irritated, tender, and swollen in that case.
Ulcers
Mouth ulcers and canker sores can also cause gum inflammation. The sores are usually whitish at the center and red on the edges. They mainly occur if you have a pre-existing autoimmune disease. Mouth ulcers and canker sores can go away on their own. However, if the inflammation continues, it may be best to consult a dentist.
Improper Brushing and Flossing
Oral hygiene is crucial, and it impacts our overall health. It involves different things, including brushing teeth and flossing. Unfortunately, improper brushing and flossing can irritate the gums, causing swelling. The gums are made of soft tissues, and brushing them roughly using a hard-bristled brush could harm them.
Smoking
Smoking also leads to gum inflammation. The tobacco chemical takes oxygen from the bloodstream and disturbs how saliva flows in the mouth. This creates a favorable environment for bacteria buildup, leading to gum swelling.
Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess is a swelling on the pus-filled gum containing dead white blood cells. It occurs due to an infection, usually below the gum line. The bump happens if bacteria enter the tooth pup due to tooth decay or a crack. If left untreated, it leads to swollen gums; in severe cases, the inflammation spreads to the face.
Seek Help from a Private Dentist to Treat Swollen Gums
Oral hygiene is crucial to maintain oral health. If your gums are swelling, it is vital to know the cause and visit your dentist for treatment. Swollen gums could mean a simple thing like improper brushing. It could also be a result of a severe dental issue.
