Swollen gums can be an unpleasant experience, often involving tenderness, pain, and even bleeding. Many people have recurring swollen gums and don’t overthink it. However, this regular issue means something is affecting your oral health, even if you already practice good oral hygiene. Here are some causes of swollen gums that your dental service in Albion might uncover.
Gingivitis Is a Likely Cause
When you visit your dental services in Albion about swollen gums, gingivitis will be one of the first things they look for. This early stage of gum disease is caused by a buildup of bacteria at the gumline, causing swollen and sore gums, bad breath, and other problems.
Gingivitis is incredibly common, with nearly half of adults 30 or older showing some signs of gum disease.[1] However, some simple improvements in oral hygiene and regular dental care can provide an effective solution to gingivitis.
You Might Have More Advanced Gum Disease
Without intervention, gingivitis can proceed to more advanced stages of gum disease. This more serious infection of the gum tissue is called periodontitis, and it can cause a wide range of potential adverse outcomes, including tooth loss.
If you’ve lived with recurring swollen gums for an extended period without visiting a dentist, you may be at serious risk of advanced gum disease. Tackling this condition immediately is the best way to ensure successful treatment.
Damaged or Decayed Teeth Could Be a Factor
Problems with your teeth can also lead to swelling and soreness in the gums. You might have tooth decay at or below the gumline. Infected and abscessed teeth can also lead to swollen gums and require root canal treatment.
In that case, other symptoms of tooth decay or damage, such as sensitivity, loose teeth, or toothaches. Visiting your local Albion dental clinic sooner rather than later is essential.
People With Dentures May Experience Swollen Gums
People living with full or partial dentures may also deal with swollen gums. As the dentures sit directly on the gums and apply pressure whenever biting or chewing, there is potential to irritate the gums.
Poor-fitting dentures can slide and rub against the gums, causing further irritation. The materials used for dentures deform over the years, so swollen and irritated gums could be a sign that it’s time for a new set of dentures or options like dental adhesives or dental implants.
Taking Action to Protect Your Gums
Swollen gums can result from dental issues or even serious underlying systemic problems. To prevent dental causes, brushing twice daily and flossing can help prevent dental loss and tooth decay. In either case, it is very important to check with your dentist regarding your swollen gums. Keeping up with oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Visiting your dentist for regularly scheduled appointments is also vital. Having an exam every six months helps stop potential issues from becoming more serious. Your dentist can spot issues like gum disease and provide effective intervention and treatment options.
If you have gum disease, various periodontal therapy treatments are available. Scaling and root planing can be highly effective in mitigating gum disease, and other options, such as antibiotics, can also work well in certain situations. Advanced cases of gum disease may benefit from gum surgery.
Find Out More From Your Dental Service in Albion, NY
Are you concerned about swollen gums or any other potential signs of oral health issues? Albion Family Dental is your trusted dental service in Albion for preventive care, periodontal therapy, and comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry. For high-quality dental care you can count on, schedule your next appointment today by calling us at 585-589-9044.
Sources:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/fast-facts/gum-disease/index.html