Table of contents:
- Causes of swollen gums
- 1. Infection
- 2. Trauma
- 3. Lack of maintaining oral hygiene
- 4. Other factors
- Diagnosis and treatment of swollen gums
- How to treat sore gums at home
- Things to avoid to prevent swollen gums
Painful, reddish, swollen, and uncomfortable gums when chewing are signs of inflamed or swollen gums. Of course, the causes of swollen gums are varied and sometimes overlooked.
In fact, this condition must be treated immediately, because if left for long it will cause complications. The complications can lead to infection until pus appears. If your immune system is low, the swelling can spread to other parts of the body such as the cheek area, under the eyes, jaw, neck, and chest.
In a severe condition of gingivitis, the gums will be swollen and over time the gums will decrease, causing loose teeth to fall out on their own. Then, how to deal with inflamed gums?
Causes of swollen gums
Swollen gums can be caused by many things. These include the following:
1. Infection
If there are cavities and holes that reach the nerve of the tooth, over time the tooth will die and there is a buildup of bacteria to the bottom of the tooth root which will cause swelling of the gums. If you are already in a chronic condition, this swelling of the gums can form like an eye ulcer and drain pus.
2. Trauma
In certain conditions, excessive pressure on the teeth can cause the gums to swell. This is often called a gingival abscess or periodontal abscess. Trauma can be caused by missing teeth, biting something too tightly, being punctured by sharp objects such as fish bones, and other traumatic conditions.
3. Lack of maintaining oral hygiene
Poor oral hygiene can also cause gums to become inflamed (gingivitis). This condition can cause the gums to become red and bleed easily. Apart from rarely cleaning your teeth, several causes that can increase the risk of difficult to clean teeth include:
- Because of the large number of tartar
- Currently undergoing treatment for braces so it is difficult to clean teeth
- Having patches that reach the gums can also cause them to become inflamed and swollen
4. Other factors
Conditions such as hormonal changes during pregnancy, lack of vitamin C intake, having diabetes, and taking certain medications can increase the risk of gums becoming swollen
Diagnosis and treatment of swollen gums
First of all, the doctor will ask about a case history of swollen gums. Then, the dentist will check the condition of the teeth and gums to find out the underlying cause of the swelling of the gums.
In addition, the doctor will check whether there are cavities or not, as well as the patient's oral hygiene condition. Sometimes a radiographic examination (dental x-ray) is needed to assist in the diagnosis process.
After the dentist has diagnosed the condition of the gums, the doctor will continue with treatment and medication. If the cause is an infection, the dentist will treat your teeth and prescribe medications such as antibiotics if necessary.
Meanwhile, if the cause is trauma, the dentist will try to relieve the trauma such as by sharpening the teeth or suggesting the use of dentures. If due to lack of dental hygiene, tartar cleaning and oral prophylaxis will be carried out.
How to treat sore gums at home
You can also help your gums recover quickly by doing home treatments. Here are things you can do:
- You must maintain oral hygiene by brushing your teeth 2 times a day. When brushing your teeth, it is recommended to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and using dental floss.
- Gargle using non-alcoholic antiseptic mouthwash or can be replaced with warm salt water.
- Take pain relievers when sick.
- Drink lots of water and eat fruits.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
During the treatment and treatment by a dentist, it is better to avoid foods that taste spicy or are hot. In addition, it is recommended not to consume alcohol-containing drinks.
Things to avoid to prevent swollen gums
In order not to swell anymore, I suggest avoiding several things, such as:
- Leave the tooth cavity, immediately see the doctor if a tooth problem
- Biting something too hard
- Doing a habit of parafunctions (for example biting nails, pens, grinding teeth)
- Don't brush your teeth twice a day
- Not cleaning tartar to the doctor
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