Skip to Content
chevron-left chevron-right chevron-up chevron-right chevron-left arrow-back star phone quote checkbox-checked search wrench info shield play connection mobile coin-dollar spoon-knife ticket pushpin location gift fire feed bubbles home heart calendar price-tag credit-card clock envelop facebook instagram twitter youtube pinterest yelp google reddit linkedin envelope bbb pinterest homeadvisor angies

What to Do About Swollen Gums

Swollen Gums Shouldn’t Be Ignored

You may not think much about your gums feeling a little tender or looking a little red after you floss or eat a meal, but these could be signs of serious dental problems. Swollen gums can be signs that you are developing or have already developed gingivitis or periodontal disease. At the first sign of gum swelling, you should get in touch with a dentist. In this post, we will be discussing what else can cause swollen gums and what you can do about it. If you are unsure about the state of your teeth and gums, we want to help. Call us at Belmont Dental Group for world-class dental service today!

What Can Cause Swollen Gums

Swollen gums aren’t always forerunners of something as dire as gum disease. There are other things that can cause your gums to swell, such as:

  • New Medications – Complications can arise with certain medications you may be taking. One such complication could be swollen gums.
  • New Dental Hygiene Routine – If you have recently added a new toothpaste or mouthwash to your dental hygiene routine and notice your gums are swelling, you could be having a reaction to the new products.
  • Pregnancy – It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to experience swollen gums due to hormone changes.
  • Poor Diet – Vitamins present in fruits and vegetables help keep your gums healthy. A diet devoid or lacking in fruits and vegetables can also cause your gums to swell.

What to Do About Gum Swelling

There are things you can do about your swollen gums. The first and most important thing to do is to make an appointment with your dentist. Even if the swelling seems to be subsiding, it’s important that you have an exam. While you wait for your appointment day, you can:

  • Rinse With Salt Water – Salt water may reduce the presence of bacteria that could be causing the swelling.
  • Gently Floss – The problem could be excess plaque or food debris stuck between your teeth close to the gums. Very gently floss the affected area.
  • Drink More Water – If your gums are swollen, avoid sugary drinks like juices and sodas. Instead, drink more water.
  • Avoid Irritants – Smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages could make the swelling worse.
  • Change Your Diet – In addition to eating more fruits and vegetables, try eating cold and soft foods while your gums are swollen.

Preserve Your Precious Smile

Your teeth, gums and winning smile are too valuable to overlook. Whether your gums are swollen, you have a toothache, or simply haven’t had your annual cleaning and exam, the time to act is now. At Belmont Dental Group, our experienced team can help you preserve your smile and even improve it with cosmetic dentistry. Learn how we can help you look and feel better today!