Incorrect brushing or flossing techniques. In many cases, swollen gums are the result of poor oral hygiene, where plaque is allowed to build up between the teeth and at the gum line. To overcome this, you will need to start brushing teeth thoroughly and flossing regularly to remove excess plaque. In addition, many people who do floss between their teeth do it too roughly, which can also cause swelling. Gingivitis and periodontitis. If good oral hygiene is not maintained, gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis can easily develop. Gingivitis is the less severe form, and can be reversed if caught early. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is more serious and can lead to tooth loss. If gums look red, shiny and swollen, then you have gingivitis. The next stage is gum recession and bone loss, which defines periodontitis. If you suspect you might have either of these gum diseases, you should consult a dentist. [2] X Research source Mouth ulcers. Mouth ulcers which form on the gums can lead to pain and swelling. You can usually identify mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, by their appearance; they will have a whitish center and red edges. Multiple mouth ulcers can appear at once, but they are usually treatable and non-contagious. Chemotherapy. One of the many unfortunate side effects of chemotherapy is painful, swollen and bleeding gums. It can also cause the growth of painful ulcers and sores on the gums due to a weakened immune system. Although these symptoms can be relieved, they will not stop while chemotherapy treatment continues. Tobacco. Smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products commonly contributes to painful, swollen gums. In fact, people who use tobacco products are far more likely to develop gum disease than non-tobacco users. As a result, the first step in relieving swollen gums is quitting smoking. Hormones. Swollen gums may be the result of an upsurge in the release of hormones which increase blood flow to the gums. These hormones include those which are produced during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause. Certain birth control pill may also release these hormones. [3] X Research source
Use a soft nylon-bristle toothbrush. This will effectively clean teeth without causing further irritation. Avoid toothbrushes with medium or hard bristles, as these can cause gums to swell further and can even erode and scratch tooth enamel. No, brushing harder does not mean brushing better. Gums are made of delicate tissue, so brushing too hard will do them more harm than good. Avoid brushing in a vigorous back-and-forth motion which does not follow the grooves between teeth. A bad brushing technique that uses increased force is as dangerous as not brushing at all. Many patients develop root exposure and increased sensitivity after brushing too hard. Choose a gum-protecting toothpaste which is designed to help prevent gingivitis. Most major toothpaste brands produce a gingivitis-fighting version.
Flossing is neglected by many people, but even those who do floss may be aggravating their swollen gums by doing it too roughly. Avoid “snapping” the floss in between your teeth, as this can damage fragile gum tissue. Instead try to slide the floss carefully between teeth, following the curve of each tooth as you go. [3] X Research source
Gargle and swish: Make your own saltwater solution, dissolving a teaspoon of regular table salt in a cup of warm water. Swish it all around the mouth, between teeth; so that it reaches the gums. Do not swallow the salty water — use it as a mouthwash. The saltwater solution can also be gargled to ease a sore throat, and used to clean new piercings and disinfect wounds. You may have luck gargling with hot water, as well. Just be careful not to burn your mouth.
To make a hot compress: Soak a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water, wring out the excess moisture, then hold 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 a paper towel. Alternatively, you can use a bag of frozen vegetables (like frozen peas) or a special cold pack that has been stored in the freezer. Hold the compress against your face for no more than 15 minutes.
Always dilute the mouthwash, adding half a cup of water to half a cup of mouthwash. You can use it two weeks in a row and then take a break for a week before you repeat the treatment.
Try buying a gum stimulator if you find it difficult to use your fingers.
If you are unsure about the correct brushing technique, you should ask your dentist for a quick lesson during your next check-up, they will be happy to oblige.
Floss gently, to avoid irritating delicate gum tissue. Always use a clean section of floss when you switch teeth, to prevent spreading bacteria from one part of the mouth to another. If you find dental floss awkward to use, look for a packet of dental picks at the drugstore — these are small wooden or plastic sticks which can be inserted between the teeth to achieve the same effects as flossing.
The top food sources of vitamin C include papaya, bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli, pineapple, Brussels sprouts, kiwifruits, oranges, cantaloupe and kale. [14] X Research source The best sources of calcium include dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt, along with sardines, tofu, salmon, soy milk, cereals and collard greens. [15] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Foods with high levels of Folic acid include dark, leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, peas, beans, lentils, celery, avocado and citrus fruits.
You can reduce stress by exercising regularly. Exercise releases happy hormones which are guaranteed to put you in a good mood. In addition, exercise will tire you out, helping you to get a better sleep at night. It’s win-win! You can also reduce stress and promote relaxation by taking some personal time each day to go for a walk, read a book, or take a bath. You should also avoid over-stimulating yourself before bed, so turn off the television and computer at least an hour before bed.
Even if your teeth and gums seem completely healthy, it is good practice to make an appointment with your dentist or dental hygienist at least once a year.
