If you notice your gums looking red and swollen, understanding why is key to treating the issue swiftly. Gums swell for several reasons, most of which relate to poor dental care. To help you identify your swollen gum issue and take action, review the following common causes. 

What Causes Gums to Swell?

1. Gingivitis

Without routine brushing and flossing, plaque builds up along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky biofilm that forms on the teeth and gums daily, but is easily removable. When plaque comes in contact with sugary food particles, it feeds and releases decay-causing acids. These acids contribute to tooth decay and irritate gum tissue, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding. Known as gingivitis, it is the reversible form of gum disease. A deep teeth cleaning by a dentist combined with daily home dental care and healthy food choices are typically enough to treat gingivitis. 

2. Abscessed Tooth

An infected tooth often results in an abscess, or pocket of pus, to contain the infection. The abscess can appear as a red bump, pimple, or boil. It causes the surrounding gum tissue to swell and can spread to the jawbone and adjacent teeth without treatment, which usually involves draining the pus and taking antibiotics to kill the infection. If you believe you have an abscess, see your dentist as soon as possible to avoid further repercussions. 

3. Gum Disease 

If gingivitis is not treated effectively, it worsens into gum disease. A chronic disease, it is possible only to manage symptoms and therefore prevent further gum tissue and bone damage. Common gum disease symptoms in addition to gum swelling include purplish or reddish gums, bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, gum recession, and pain when chewing. Deep professional teeth cleaning known as dental planing and scaling helps manage gum disease, as does routine home dental care. In severe cases, gum grafts might be necessary to treat serious tissue recession. 

Treat swollen gums with professional dental care services from James Julien DDS. Based in Kenai, AK, this dentist remains dedicated to providing a welcoming environment for patients of all ages. Call (907) 283-4857 today to make an appointment or visit the dentist online for more about dental care services.