Swollen gums can be caused by countless factors. People with swollen gums can suffer from periodontitis, irritation caused by food or drink, tooth decay, insufficient nutrition or other oral problems. This article describes several solutions to relieve swollen gums, but remember that the only way to understand exactly the underlying cause is to visit a dentist.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Relieve the Pain
Step 1. Identify the cause
The gums can swell for a variety of reasons, and in many cases it can be a symptom of disease. It is important to understand the reasons for this, so that you follow the right course of action, whether it is a home treatment or a visit to a dentist. Some of the most common causes are:
-
Wrong brushing techniques or use of dental floss.
In many cases, swollen gums are the result of poor oral hygiene, which causes plaque to build up between the teeth and on the gum line. To remedy this, you need to brush your teeth thoroughly and floss regularly. Also, many people who floss use too aggressive a technique, which can be another factor for swelling.
-
Gingivitis and periodontitis.
If good oral hygiene is not maintained, gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis can easily develop. Gingivitis is the least severe form and can be cured if caught early. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is more serious and can even lead to tooth loss. If you are concerned that you have any of these diseases, you should consult a dentist without delay.
-
Mouth ulcers.
If ulcers form on the gums, they can cause pain and swelling. Ulcers, also known as canker sores, are usually easily recognized by their appearance; they have a whitish central area and red edges. Multiple canker sores can also form at one time, but they are generally treatable and not contagious.
-
Chemotherapy.
Among its many unfortunate side effects are sore, swollen and bleeding gums. This therapy can also cause ulcers and sores to form on the gums. Although they are symptoms that can be relieved, they continue to present themselves throughout the period of chemotherapy treatment.
-
Tobacco.
Smoking cigarettes and the use of other tobacco products facilitate swelling and gum pain. In fact, smokers and users of tobacco products are much more likely to develop oral diseases than non-smokers. Therefore, the first thing to do to reduce swelling in the gums is to stop smoking.
-
Hormones.
Swollen gums can be the result of increased hormone release, resulting in increased blood flow to this area. These are the hormones that are produced during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause. Some birth control pills can also release these hormones.
Step 2. Gently brush the chewing surface of the teeth, the front and back (next to the tongue) and especially the back teeth of both arches; make a circular motion, but avoid brushing from side to side
As mentioned above, swollen gums often are a consequence of plaque formed on the teeth. The best solution in this case is to remove the plaque to avoid gum disease, easily solving the problem with gentle but thorough brushing and flossing. You should try to brush your teeth at least twice a day, morning and evening, after meals if possible.
- Use a soft toothbrush with nylon bristles. This allows you to clean your teeth without causing further irritation. Avoid toothbrushes that have medium or hard bristles, as they can worsen gum swelling and erode tooth enamel.
- Brush vigorously Not it means brushing better. The gums are delicate, so if you are too aggressive you do more harm than good. Do not brush your teeth with a too vigorous horizontal motion that does not follow the direction of the interdental spaces.
- Choose a toothpaste that protects the gums, specially designed to prevent gingivitis. Most major brands of toothpaste produce a specific version for gum care.
Step 3. Use dental floss once a day to remove plaque in places that the toothbrush cannot reach, but do not overuse it, as it could further irritate the gums
The use of dental floss is a practice that is neglected by many people, but even those who use it can aggravate the swelling of the gums if they use a too aggressive technique. Avoid "snapping" the floss between the interdental spaces as you can damage the delicate gum tissue. Instead, try to slide it carefully between your teeth, following the curve of each of them
Step 4. Rinse your mouth with tap water or a salt water solution
Gargling with a salt water solution is apparently the simplest solution when it comes to reducing swollen gums, but it is still one of the most effective. The salt acts as an antibacterial agent, clearing the mouth of contaminants and relieving inflamed gums.
- Gargle and rinse: Prepare a saline solution by dissolving a teaspoon of table salt in 240ml of hot water. Thoroughly rinse the entire oral cavity so as to reach the gums as well. Try not to ingest too much salt water.
- You can achieve a similar result by rinsing for about 30 seconds with a mixture of water and fresh lemon juice. This may not be as effective as the salt water solution, but it sure tastes better!
- You can also gargle with the salt water solution to relieve a sore throat, to clean any new piercings, and to disinfect wounds.
Step 5. Make hot and cold packs
Both provide easy and immediate relief for inflamed and swollen gums. Hot packs are best for relieving pain, while cold packs are effective in reducing swelling. Keep the pack resting on the face instead of directly on the gum, as it is less embarrassing and prevents the gums from becoming further irritated due to sudden changes in temperature.
-
To make a warm compress:
soak a clean cloth in warm (not hot) water, squeeze out the excess moisture, and place it against your face until the pain begins to subside.
-
To make a cold compress:
wrap a couple of ice cubes in a small clean cloth or paper towel. Alternatively, you can use a bag of frozen vegetables (such as peas) or a special cold pack that you have stored in the freezer. Place it on your face in the area adjacent to the painful area and keep it until the swelling is reduced and the area becomes a bit numb.
Step 6. Avoid factors that can irritate the gums
When you have gum inflammation, it is important to avoid any substances that can worsen the situation, such as tobacco products and alcohol. Also, if you are using disinfectant mouthwashes, know that they are quite aggressive and can aggravate the problem, so you should avoid using them at least for a while.
Step 7. Drink lots of water
Drinking plenty of water helps eliminate food residues and bacteria from the mouth, limiting the development of other plaque. Additionally, water stimulates saliva production, which helps kill bacteria naturally.
Step 8. Try to gently massage the gums
A light gum massage can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation by increasing blood circulation in the area. Make a gentle circular motion over your gums for about a minute. Remember to wash your hands first and make sure your nails are clean and trimmed. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria.
Step 9. Apply some clove oil
It is a natural treatment that has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation. Just apply some directly on swollen gums three times a day with a cotton swab. Alternatively, you can add a few drops to a cup of water and rinse all over your mouth. You can find clove oil in major pharmacies, natural product stores or health food stores.
Part 2 of 2: Preventing Swelling of the Gums
Step 1. Gently brush your teeth thoroughly at least 2, or even 3, times a day
Brushing your teeth removes plaque from your mouth and helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay. To be sure, almost all oral health problems can be prevented with adequate, constant and complete dental hygiene. You should brush your teeth at least once in the morning and once in the evening, preferably after meals.
If you don't know the correct brushing technique, you should ask your dentist to give you a short lesson during your next follow-up visit; will be happy to teach you
Step 2. Floss daily and include it as an essential part of your oral hygiene routine, as it is often a practice that is overlooked
Using it regularly allows you to remove plaque and bacteria that settle in the crevices between the teeth, where the toothbrush cannot reach.
- Remember to use it gently, so as not to irritate the delicate gum tissue, use a clean piece in each pair of teeth, to prevent bacteria from spreading from one area of the mouth to another.
- If you find it inconvenient to use dental floss, you can get the interdental brushes that you can easily find in drugstores; these are small sticks of wood or plastic that are inserted between the teeth to obtain the same effects as dental floss.
Step 3. Eat a varied diet rich in vitamin C, calcium and folic acid
Poor nutrition can lead to inflammation of the gums (as well as creating other problems). In particular, it is important to get adequate amounts of vitamin C, calcium and folic acid. This is because vitamin C and folic acid actively help keep the gums healthy and prevent gingivitis; It has also been shown that calcium deficient people are more likely to develop gum disease. Take a multivitamin supplement every day and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
- The best food sources of vitamin C are papaya, peppers, strawberries, broccoli, pineapple, Brussels sprouts, kiwis, oranges, cantaloupe and kale.
- The best sources of calcium are dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt, as well as sardines, tofu, salmon, soy milk, cereals, and kale.
- Foods with high levels of folic acid are dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, asparagus, peas, beans, lentils, celery, avocados and citrus fruits.
Step 4. Never gargle with vinegar or lemon juice:
since they are acidic they can erode and damage the teeth. Rinse your mouth with water.
Step 5. Get enough sleep and try not to stress yourself
Too much fatigue can cause swelling of the face and gums, so try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night. You must also try to avoid stress as much as possible, as it stimulates the body to release a chemical, known as cortisol, which has been associated with inflammation of the gums and other parts of the body.
- You can reduce stress by doing regular physical activity. Exercise releases the hormones of happiness, which put you in a good mood. Plus, training physically tires you, helping you sleep better. This way you kill two birds with one stone!
- You can try to reduce tension, anxiety and promote relaxation by taking some time for yourself every day to take a walk, read a book or take a relaxing bath. You shouldn't have too much arousal before bed either, so turn off the television and computer at least an hour before bed.
Step 6. Eliminate the tobacco
As mentioned earlier, tobacco is very irritating to the gums, and people who smoke or use other tobacco products are at a higher risk of developing gum disease. If possible, you should make every effort to quit smoking or, at the very least, reduce your consumption.
Step 7. Visit your dentist for a teeth cleaning and follow-up examination
Swollen gums are often the manifestation of a more serious dental problem, such as periodontitis, caused by plaque, germs and tooth decay so if you notice that your gums are always swollen, you should make an appointment with your dentist. He will be able to tell you exactly what your oral problem is and will recommend the appropriate treatment. Even if your teeth and gums look perfectly healthy, it's a good habit to see your dentist or dental hygienist at least twice a year.
Advice
- When brushing your teeth, be sure not to brush too vigorously so as not to irritate your gums. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, make slow, gentle circular motions to keep your gums healthy.
- Replace your toothbrush every month, as the old toothbrush often retains a lot of bacteria.
- If you have recently changed your flossing habits or have resumed flossing after a period of non-use, your gums may be sore, bleeding slightly, or inflamed in the first week. However, keep in the habit of using it and you will see that your gums will return to normal!
Warnings
- While there are ways to relieve pain with home remedies, if your gums continue to be swollen it is imperative to see a dentist. Behind gingival inflammation there is often a much more serious disease that can cause serious damage.
- Try not to consume foods and drinks that are too hot or too cold. Many people claim that their gums are very sensitive to temperature, especially as they get older. Consequently, it is best to avoid iced drinks or hot teas, coffees and soups. This does not mean that you should completely avoid consuming them, but it is better if you wait until they have warmed up or cooled down a bit before drinking them respectively.
