Your oral health affects your overall wellbeing, and swollen gums are a concerning sign. While you should always consult dentists for this issue, learning about potential causes could ease your mind – or push you to schedule an appointment. Below are four common reasons your gums could swell.

Potential Reasons Your Gums Are Inflamed

1. Ignoring Recommend Oral Hygiene Practices

The leading cause of irritated and swollen gums is neglecting your oral hygiene. Dentists recommend brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. This plan ensures your mouth stays clean and healthy, free of inflammation-causing infections. It also removes particles stuck between your teeth or in your gums, which causes swelling.

2. Ill-Fitting Dentures

Your teeth will shift over time, so your dentures may not fit as well as they did when you first got them. If this is the case, they will become too tight on your gums or continuously shift around your mouth, rubbing your gums. This movement causes irritation, swelling, and sensitivity, and you may need a refitting from your dentist.

3. Pregnancy

It’s widely known that pregnancy hormones cause swelling – particularly in the feet and ankles. However, those same hormones can cause inflammation in your gums, too. If you’re experiencing this, ask your dentist about safe, effective ways to relieve gum swelling while pregnant.

4. Gingivitis

This issue is an early stage of gum disease, and it occurs as a result of poor dental hygiene. Without proper brushing and flossing, plaque accumulates on your teeth and forms tartar. Tartar is a hard substance that irritates your gums, causing swelling, pain, and bleeding. If left untreated, your gums will begin to pull away from your teeth, allowing bacteria to get deeper into your gums and cause infection. Treatments for periodontal disease include deep cleaning, gum grafts, and removal of the infected tissue, such as through laser-assisted gum therapy.

 

If your gums are swollen and sore, the dentists at the office of Larry G. Hubbard, DDS will help. Serving Statesboro, GA, since 1978, they offer comprehensive dental services, including deep cleanings, laser-assisted gum therapy, same-day crowns, and maxillofacial surgery. They work closely with patients to ensure they understand all processes and expected costs, helping coordinate with insurance. Learn more about their gum therapy online, and call (912) 764-9891 to arrange a consultation today.