What You Need to Know About Swollen Gums

Dentists always remind their patients to brush and floss properly and regularly. They always warn them of the dangers of gum problems but still many people ignore their warning until they come to a point that they can no longer tolerate the pain from oral health problems.

The effects of gum problems are far-reaching and severely damaging. It can ruin a beautiful smile, costs thousands of dollars to fix and treat and can lead to serious oral diseases. But gum disease is something that you can prevent and treat before it becomes severe. Here are the facts that you need to know in order to identify, treat, and stop gum problems from destroying your entire dental domain:

The Growth

Having swollen gums is not something to be ignored. It is a sign of inflammation and infection of the gums and can result to bone and tissue loss. This is developed from poor oral health habits. Nutritional deficiencies and other health problems can also make one susceptible to swollen gums. This happens when plaque, which is a filmy bacterium that forms on the surface of the teeth, after some time hardens into calculus. Calculus is not something that can be removed by brushing and flossing at home. The said bacterial build-up can reach into the pockets of every tooth and intensify them, gradually separating the gums away from the teeth. Later on, it leads to bone deterioration resulting to loosing or loss of teeth. Aesthetically speaking, loss of teeth is not something one would desire.

The Indicators

The most common signs of swollen gums are bleeding during brushing, flossing, or even just by eating certain foods. Advanced swollen gums may show spontaneous bleeding. The gums appear inflated and might be slightly tender. Consistent and strong foul breath is also one of the most common signs of gum disease. Loose teeth and receding gums are warning signs of advanced stage of the disease. Signs and symptoms of swollen gums are not visible in the early stage which makes it particularly dangerous.

The Solution

Having swollen gums during the early stage can be restored to health by proper and routine home oral care and regular professional cleanings. Ask your dentist for advice on the best methods of brushing, flossing and using mouthwash. Advanced stage of swollen gums will require assistance of a specialized dentist or periodentist for treatment. It is important that the problem be addressed sooner for some damage may become irreversible. Untreated swollen gums can lead to loss of teeth and decay which may later leave an option of cosmetic reconstruction or surgery which can be extremely costly. Aside from the cost, it also takes time to complete. Surgery can be a particularly painful and expensive solution to save bone and tissue from destruction.