Why Do My Gums Feel Swollen?

Swollen gums, also known as gingival swelling, can be an uncomfortable and sometimes painful condition. It can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from poor oral hygiene to more serious medical conditions. Understanding the different causes can help you determine the best course of action to relieve your symptoms and improve your oral health.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Plaque accumulation: Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth daily. When plaque is not removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can irritate your gums and cause them to swell.
Gingivitis: Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by plaque buildup. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums that may be tender to the touch.

Medical Conditions

Gum disease (periodontitis): Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease that can lead to the destruction of the gum tissue and bone supporting your teeth. It can cause severe gum swelling, bleeding, and pain.
Diabetes: Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your gums, making them more prone to infection and swelling.
Leukemia: Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It can cause gum swelling, bleeding, and other oral problems.
Vitamin C deficiency: Scurvy, caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C, can lead to swollen and bleeding gums.

Other Causes

Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more sensitive and prone to swelling.
Medications: Some medications, such as steroids and certain cancer treatments, can cause gum swelling as a side effect.
Trauma: Injury to your gums from biting something hard or brushing too aggressively can cause swelling.
Smoking: Smoking can damage your gums and make them more susceptible to infection and swelling.

When to See a Dentist

If you have swollen gums, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. While some cases of gum swelling can be managed with improved oral hygiene, others may require antibiotics or other medications to address infection. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat advanced gum disease.

Conclusion

Swollen gums can be caused by a variety of factors, from poor oral hygiene to more serious medical conditions. Understanding the different causes can help you determine the best course of action to relieve your symptoms and improve your oral health. If you have swollen gums, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.

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