Gum issues are more common than you may think, especially when it comes to inflammation. Watching for signs of damage to your oral health will help keep your teeth in better shape and prevent irreversible damage. If you are experiencing inflamed gums, there are some foods you could cut out of your diet and care tips to help reduce the inflammation.
Common Causes Of Gum Inflammation
When patients start to experience gum inflammation, there can be a number of causes that can lead to swelling or inflamed pockets in their gums. One of the most common causes is food particles that get stuck between your teeth and cause irritation. Brushing and flossing regularly will help you avoid irritated gums.
Bacteria or infections are another common cause of gum swelling. Gingivitis, herpes, or oral thrush can all cause pain in the gums. These infections can lead to other symptoms like bad breath, tooth loss, bleeding gums, or receding gums.
Those who are pregnant can experience swelling in the gums due to rapidly changing hormones. The increased blood flow to many parts of the body, including the gums, can make them swell up or be increasingly sensitive. This gum inflammation is only temporary, but you can follow some home remedies to help reduce pain symptoms.
1- Gargle Salt Water
There are some home remedies to try before you may need to consult a dentist. One of the ways to help reduce inflammation in your gums is to gargle salt water. Saltwater has been shown to improve wound healing and reduce swelling.
A salt water rinse can be made with about 1 teaspoon of salt in about a cup of warm water. Swish this around in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This should temporarily reduce your swelling.
2- Turmeric Products
Some studies have shown that turmeric gel can help control the plaque on our gums and teeth. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric help to reduce the symptoms of gingivitis as well. You can find turmeric gel or powder online or in some drug stores and they can be used to brush your teeth and reduce plaque.
3- Aloe Vera Gel
Those who have gingivitis can benefit from using aloe vera. Reducing swelling is done by the properties of aloe vera and can even be found in some medicated mouthwash. Using gel from the aloe plant directly can also help with swelling. Rub some aloe gel on the gums and let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse well.
4- Drink Plenty Of Water
Some of the reasons for swollen gums are because of bacteria or leftover food particles. Drinking plenty of water will help remove stubborn particles and keep your gums healthy. Drinking water helps you rinse bacteria out of the gums and increase saliva production.
How To Prevent Inflamed Gums Before They Occur
There are some extra oral care steps that you can take to help prevent swelling and irritation before it occurs. Taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly is the easiest way to prevent inflamed gums. Flossing will help remove food particles in the small cracks of your teeth and brushing will remove plaque.
Using gentle oral care products like mouthwash without alcohol and sensitive toothpaste will prevent gum sensitivity. Too many chemicals can cause your gums to be stripped and cause inflammation that is extremely painful.
Other ways to prevent inflamed gums include:
- Limit sugary drinks
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- Avoid sharp foods that can get stuck in your gums
- Don’t brush too hard
How Our Dental Practice Can Help
Certain causes of gum inflammation need to be treated with medication or by a dentist. Our dentists at Sunset Dental have worked with patients of all ages and oral problems. We know how to recognize early signs of gum disease or swelling for other reasons. This is why it is crucial for patients to have dental checkups every six months. Cleanings and checkups can help prevent the build-up of bacteria that often is the culprit for inflamed gums.
If you need regular dental cleaning or other oral help, Sunset Dental has you covered. We offer additional services like night guards, TMJ treatment, dental crowns, root canals, and more! Our practice always welcomes new patients to our family, so if you are looking for a new and knowledgeable dentist, come see Dr. Ryder Waldron.