Swollen gums are a common issue, but that doesn’t mean they’re one to ignore. No matter the root cause, swelling along the gum line indicates some type of issue. Here are some of the reasons this symptom brings patients to the dentist’s office. 

Why Are My Gums Swollen?

1. Gingivitis

The most common reason for gum swelling is gingivitis. In this condition, gums become red, inflamed, and irritated. They may bleed upon brushing or flossing. Yet, in this stage, symptoms can be mild and may therefore go overlooked.

Gingivitis is caused by the bacteria that accumulates along the gum line when food particles get left behind and create plaque and then tartar. Fortunately, plaque can be easily eradicated with regular brushing and flossing, while tartar can be removed in the dentist’s office through a professional cleaning. Left unaddressed, however, gingivitis can progress into the more serious form of gum disease, periodontitis. This serious condition leads to tooth and bone loss if untreated.

2. Infection

Any type of oral infection can manifest as swelling in the gums. Sometimes, a cavity that goes untreated can lead to a dental abscess. In this condition, the gum swells near the affected tooth. Dentists may need to treat the infection first through antibiotics or drainage. Then, the decayed tooth may require treatment such as root canal therapy or extraction. 

Less often, fungal and viral infections can cause swelling of the gums. For example, thrush, or an overactive colony of oral yeast, can cause swollen gums. The condition is common in babies because their immune system isn’t fully developed and may not properly regulate bacteria.

3. Underlying Health Factors

Health factors unrelated to your dental wellness could also cause gum swelling. For instance, pregnancy leads to an increase in blood flow which may make gums more irritated. Hormonal changes can also impact the body’s ability to fight off bacteria, increasing the odds of gingivitis. Seeing your dentist for a routine cleaning during pregnancy can help keep the condition at bay.

Rarely, people may also experience nutritional deficiencies that cause gum problems. For example, insufficient vitamin C levels affect the body’s ability to maintain the teeth and gums. This issue is less common in developed nations which have vitamin-fortified foods, but some older adults with dietary issues may experience the problem. 

Whether you have swollen gums or another dental issue, turn to Mark Stephens DMD in Richmond, KY for compassionate care. This dentist is committed to making your appointment as comfortable as possible for all general, cosmetic, and restorative services. Call (859) 626-0069 to schedule an appointment or send their team a message online.