If you want to keep your natural teeth for the rest of your life and maintain a healthy smile, taking good care of your gums is a good place to start. If your gums are unhealthy, you\u2019re at greater risk for tooth decay, root infections, and tooth loss. Therefore, it\u2019s important to be on the lookout for gum problems, like swollen gums. Take a look at what you should do if your gums seem swollen.<\/p>\n
Assess Any Recent Changes<\/p>\n
Gum swelling can occur as a side effect to a new medication or a reaction to a new toothpaste or mouthwash. Have you recently started taking a new medication or switched to a different brand of oral care products?<\/p>\n
If it\u2019s a reaction to your toothpaste or mouthwash, you should be able to solve the problem by switching back to your regular brand. If you\u2019re taking a new medication, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist if gum swelling is a side effect of your medication and what you should do about it.<\/p>\n
Consider Your Diet<\/p>\n
Swollen gums can also be a response to nutritional deficiencies. A lack of vitamin C in particular can cause gum inflammation. Have your grocery trips been a little light on the produce lately? If so, making an effort to work in more fresh fruits and vegetables can help.<\/p>\n
Have Your Dentist Check For Gum Disease<\/p>\n
Swollen, inflamed gums are often a sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that\u2019s found in the plaque that builds up on your teeth. You can get rid of this bacteria by brushing your teeth two or three times a day and flossing at least once a day. Gingivitis often occurs when patients aren\u2019t diligent about their oral hygiene.<\/p>\n
If you have swollen gums, it\u2019s important to step up your oral hygiene routine, and you should also make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. The earlier gum disease is spotted and treated, the more effective your treatment will be.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t ignore swollen gums, as they can signal a more serious issue. Talk to your dentist about the things you can do to improve your gum health.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
If you want to keep your natural teeth for the rest of your life and maintain a healthy smile, taking good care of your gums is a good place to start. Take a look at what you should do if your gums seem swollen.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1075,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,2],"tags":[76,75],"yoast_head":"\n