Also known as the gingiva, the gum is the mucosal layer that surrounds the tooth roots. They are extremely important as they form the foundation of oral and dental health. Gum swelling is considered among periodontal diseases and is commonly seen today. Studies have shown that 70% of tooth loss in adults is caused by periodontal diseases. Although gum swelling has different causes, its progression negatively affects oral and dental health to a great extent. Therefore, doctor check-ups should not be neglected, and information about the causes and treatment processes should be obtained.
Gingivitis (gum inflammation) occurs as a result of an inflammatory reaction in the gums. Its main symptoms include swelling, pain, and sensitivity in the gums. Since the causative factors vary, a direct diagnosis is difficult. In some cases, a swollen gum may resolve on its own. When it does not recur, it can be considered to be due to a lapse in oral care. However, its recurrence and long duration indicate a health problem.
For swelling in the gums, one should see a gum disease specialist. In the periodontology department, the factors causing the swelling are investigated. X-rays and, when necessary, lab tests are requested to decide on the treatment process. If a condition like wisdom tooth gum swelling is present, the wisdom teeth may need to be extracted.
Gum swelling is a serious problem that reduces the quality of life and affects the abilities of speaking and chewing. Insufficient attention to oral and dental care can be listed among the main reasons. However, there are also different reasons for swelling in the gums. The causes of gum swelling can be listed as follows:
Expert physicians do not suggest that gum swelling is a primary disease. It is generally thought to be a side effect that occurs due to different health problems. When its common causes are examined, a large part of it occurs due to inflammation. If the gum is inflamed, bleeding in the gums also occurs. Bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth are also due to this.
When dental care is neglected, plaque and tartar occur. Tartar can appear due to factors such as smoking, tea, and coffee consumption. The plaque surrounding the gums is of bacterial origin. As a result, symptoms such as a feeling of recession in the gums, swelling, and bad breath are seen.
Not paying attention to one’s diet is also a factor that directly affects oral and dental health. For example, a vitamin C deficiency can cause the gums to swell and bleed. When a condition is caused by a vitamin deficiency, the use of vitamin supplements is recommended for its treatment.
The pregnancy period is a time when there are serious changes in hormones. It is known that there are changes in the speed and volume of blood flow during this period. The changes that occur in the body cause sensitivity and swelling in the gums. In cases caused only by pregnancy, it is possible for it to resolve on its own. However, if it progresses and negatively affects the ability to chew, it should be treated. Contrary to popular belief, there is no harm in receiving dental treatment while pregnant.
Gum swellings caused by infection are due to fungi, viruses, and bacteria. Severe viral diseases such as the flu can affect the gums. Gum swellings that occur along with the symptoms of the disease are treated with the use of antibiotics. It is a temporary process, and the symptoms of pain and swelling disappear in a short time.
Another less common factor is medication use. Cyclosporine and calcium channel blockers are substances known to cause swelling in the gums. Although not certain, they appear as side effects of drugs. It is severe when the medication is first started; complications may decrease as the medication is continued. If complications increase and do not pass for a week, the doctor who prescribed the drug should be contacted.
Symptoms such as swelling at the base of the teeth and color changes are the main symptoms of gum swelling and gum recession. However, the symptoms taken into account when making a diagnosis are as follows:
Gum swelling creates a very uncomfortable feeling and negatively affects daily life. When these symptoms begin to appear, one should go to a Periodontology clinic and receive treatment from gum disease specialists. For the treatment of gum swelling, the factor that causes the symptoms is first examined. You should share the medications you use or if you have a vitamin deficiency with your doctor to decide on the treatment.
After the source of the problem is understood, its treatment is quite easy. Methods such as cleaning tartar, using antibiotics, and, when necessary, vitamin supplements are followed. If it has occurred due to a lack of hygiene, it is possible for it to disappear when hygiene is maintained. All treatment methods are paths that expert physicians should decide on after an examination.
Intervening in gum swelling at home or waiting for it to pass on its own are not healthy solutions. Unconscious intervention in the gum, which is extremely sensitive due to swelling, can result in the spread and progression of the inflammation. If you have been experiencing these problems for more than a week, you must undergo an expert check-up.
The condition of gum swelling, which occurs for reasons such as neglect of dental care and infection, is treated in different ways. Medication may be used, or tartar cleaning may be performed depending on the causative factor. The swelling that occurs in the gum is not only due to inflammation. The use of medication without a diagnosis is not recommended, and antibiotics are given if deemed necessary. There is no benefit in using medication for swelling caused by tartar. In this case, only tartar cleaning, called scaling, should be performed.
1- Why Do Gums Swell and How Does It Go Away?
Gums swell for reasons such as tartar, infection, and hygiene problems. For it to go away, it is necessary to consume soft foods for a while and to pay more attention to oral care. If it persists for about a week, a gum disease specialist must be seen.
2- What Should Be Done for Swollen Gums?
You need to brush your teeth regularly and clean them with dental floss. Gargling with salt water can relieve the swelling and pain for a while. Using a better quality toothpaste and changing eating habits are also important.
3- How Is Gum Enlargement Treated?
According to experts, gum swelling is not a primary disease but a symptom of different diseases. Therefore, the causative factor is first identified. A treatment path is decided upon according to its causes, such as inflammation or tartar formation. Just as there is not a single cause, the treatment processes also differ. It is usually treated in a short time with medication and tartar cleaning.
