Gum Swollen around One Tooth
Healthy gums are pink in color; they are almost plump, and surround each of your teeth without pain. If your gums are abnormally swollen around one or many teeth, or if you have pain or bleeding in your gums, it is some cause for concern.
Swollen gums can be a sign of gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums. There are other, rarer causes of gum swelling as well, so it is important to talk to your dentist if you have swollen gums that don’t go away. Swelling of the gums is most often due to inflammation. In addition to the discomfort and pain in the gums, this can lead to an abscess or even loosening of the teeth. This is why it is necessary to prevent this inflammation with good oral hygiene or to treat this inflammation at the dentist’s office.
Why does the gum swell?
Gum problems are common in adults. In most cases, a swollen (or enlarged) gum is a sign of gingivitis. The gums soften and redden, they also become more sensitive to the touch. Left untreated, this inflammation can turn into an infection. This is called a gum abscess, which is painful, or periodontitis, when the infection becomes inflammation.
Dental plaque is considered to be the main source of gum problems. Tartar is porous in nature, and bacteria can easily grow in it. Some causes external to tartar can also cause gingivitis:
- smoking;
- taking certain medicines
- vitamin C deficiency
- hormonal disturbances
- pregnancy
- stress
- diabetes
- hypothyroidism
How to treat swelling of the gums?
At home, teeth should be brushed one to two times a day, even if the gums are tender. Proceed gently, preferably with a soft electric toothbrush. Pay particular attention to the junction area between the gum and the tooth. Bleeding may appear, but you should not worry, the healthier your gums get, the less you will bleed over time.
Use dental floss or brushes to remove dental plaque as much as possible from the interdental spaces. Antiseptic mouthwashes will also fight the infection.
Scaling performed by a dental surgeon will complete the treatment (and regular scaling will prevent recurrence of gingivitis).
During the inflammatory period, limit raw or acidic foods, as well as processed sugar, which can increase the swelling of the gums.
Should you consult your dentist in case of swollen gums?
In the most advanced cases, descaling, even thorough, is no longer sufficient. If bacteria get between the gum and the tooth, the use of an antiseptic solution will be essential. Antibiotics may also be prescribed. In case of periodontitis, periodontal surgery may be necessary. Do not take the swelling of your gums lightly and consult your dentist if it persists. Indeed, a swollen gum will more than interfere with the wearing of the gutter: it can go as far as damaging your teeth. While gingivitis can heal on its own, periodontitis cannot. In a few months, the tissues that support the tooth will be irreversibly destroyed by this inflammation. You may lose your teeth because of it.