What does it mean when Gums are Puffy?
Do your gums hurt or do you notice any unusual swelling or redness? These gum problems are not to be taken lightly because they are signs of inflammation. To avoid any complications, consult your dentist. Puffy gums can mean a great deal many things, so it is important to get to the bottom of your issues before your puffy gums get worse and cause bleeding and discomfort.
What is inflammation of the gums?
Swollen, red and / or sore gums are caused by inflammation of the oral mucous membranes. The accumulation of bacteria at the junction between the teeth and the gums is generally implicated. Swollen gums can therefore be the result of too much dental plaque, but also of an abscess or another type of oral infection. If your gums turn red, the plaque on your teeth has already turned into tartar, which only the dentist can remove. Do not wait to consult a dental professional and undergo treatment.
The most common reasons for puffy gums
Swollen and red gums are often signs of gingivitis, a disease that can degenerate into periodontitis, which is more difficult to treat. Gingivitis affects many adults. This is one of the main reasons for it being a good idea to see your dentist. The most common complaints with gingivitis are:
- Your gums are swollen, but not painful, you can see swelling where the lining touches the tooth, but it is not tender to the touch.
- Only the gums at the back of your mouth are swollen and painful, around the molars.
- Your gums are swollen around your wisdom teeth, after they have been extracted or during their eruption.
- All the gums are affected and the pain is generalized.
If you recognize yourself in any of these situations, consult your doctor or dentist, who will be able to identify and explain these symptoms.
Identify the symptoms
Swollen gums, an irritated mouth, local or generalized pain are warning signs of certain pathologies. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the most common cases, but other diseases may be related to these signs. This is why your dentist, in addition to examining your mouth, will ask you a number of questions. This will allow them to make a diagnosis. Be prepared to answer several questions asked by your dentist:
- When did the swelling start? Is it recent?
- Are they still swollen?
- Does this only happen once in a while?
- Have you ever suffered from gum disease?
- What are your oral hygiene habits?
- How often do you floss your teeth?
- Are you using a hard toothbrush?
- Do you have any particular habits: toothpicks or others?
- When was your last cleaning at the dentist (dental curettage)?
- Do you have any particular eating habits?
- Have you changed your diet?
- Are you consuming enough fruits and vegetables?
- Are you taking any vitamin supplements?
- Are you taking any special medications?
- Are you pregnant ?
- Have you recently changed your toothpaste or mouthwash?
- What are your other symptoms (bad breath, sore throat, pain…)?