Have you asked yourself recently, “Why are my gums swollen?” If you’re not sure what the cause may be, it’s probably time for a trip to the dentist. Swollen gums may be a sign that something more significant is afoot in your mouth. Taking quick action is the best thing to do to stop any further damage to your oral health. The experts at South High Dental have heard the question, “Why are my gums swollen?” countless times and knows the most likely culprits behind the issue.
Why Are My Gums Swollen?
Your gums are perhaps the most overlooked part of your mouth, at least where oral health is concerned. Your teeth tend to take center stage, but your gums are equally as important. Without that bed of healthy pink tissue, your teeth would be lost—literally and figuratively.
But back to the question, “Why are my gums swollen?” The puffiness or protruding gum tissue you’re referring to is known to your dentist as “gingival swelling.” This symptom is usually accompanied by one of several other signs of irritation.
For instance, the gum line around the tooth might be sensitive or sore, especially when chewing. The tissue may appear discolored, usually displaying a redder tone than usual. In some cases, especially if wisdom teeth are involved, the gum may swell to the point where it covers part of the tooth. Bleeding during brushing or flossing is also typical.
What’s Causing My Swollen Gums?
There are several possible explanations for why your gums are swollen. By far, the most likely cause is gingivitis, a common type of gum disease that most people experience at some point in our lives. Gingivitis can produce such mild symptoms that you don’t even know that you have it. However, it’s essential that you do what you can to prevent it, as it can lead to much more severe problems like tooth loss and severe gum damage.
Gingivitis is usually the result of bad oral hygiene habits, like not brushing frequently, forgetting to floss, and not visiting the dentist regularly enough. As time passes, plaque builds up along the gumline. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which only the dentist can remove. It only takes a few days for tartar to form, which is why dental professionals suggest a routine of brushing and flossing to maintain healthy gums as well as teeth.
There are other, less common reasons for swollen gums. Despite having different causes, getting treatment quickly is still the best way to deal with these problems. For example, did you know that pregnancy can cause your gums to swell? So can a diet lacking in vitamin C. Advanced tooth decay or an untreated infection can also lead to issues with your gums. In that case, you may be looking at surgery or antibiotics as part of your treatment.
Treating Your Swollen Gums
Whatever the cause of your swollen gums, your best bet for treating it is to consult with an outstanding dentist like those at South High Dental in Columbus, OH. If you’re asking “Why are my gums swollen?”, even if your symptoms are relatively mild, we can put your mind at ease and get you smiling again in no time.
At South High Dental, our staff has years of experience with problems just like yours and is ready to find the right treatment for you. Don’t let swollen gums trouble you anymore. Contact us at 614.363.2462 today.
