10 Causes of Swollen Gums that Cause Pain and How to Prevent Them

Kapanlagi.com - Swollen gums often cause a biting pain in the mouth cavity and teeth. There are various causes of swollen gums that can be experienced by everyone with different symptoms. However, infection is the most common cause of swollen gums.

Keeping dental health and oral hygiene is certainly an activity that cannot be overlooked. Not only teeth, gum health is also important to be considered. Gums are part of the mouth and teeth in the form of normal transparent gingival tissue but pinkish red due to blood flow. These gums cover the maxilla and mandible bones in the mouth and are directly related to tooth roots and bones.

Therefore, when the gums have problems, it can cause a biting and severe throbbing pain in the tooth roots or bones. Swollen gums can be experienced by everyone due to inappropriate daily activities such as brushing teeth or even due to infection.

When the gums are swollen, it usually causes bad breath and even the presence of pus lumps that cause throbbing pain. In addition, swollen gums can also be a sign of certain health problems that need to be aware of.

So what are the causes of swollen gums?

The causes of swollen gums and how to prevent them are described in several points below. For more complete information, please refer to the following discussion about swollen gums summarized from various sources.

1. Accumulation of Dental Plaque

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The first cause of swollen gums can be caused by the accumulation of dental plaque. This dental plaque can be obtained from food residues that stick to the gaps between teeth. The accumulation of food residues can cause swollen gums and even the formation of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Especially if you don't clean your teeth immediately after eating, the plaque can harden and form tartar. Therefore, maintaining oral and dental hygiene is necessary to prevent swollen gums.

2. Brushing Teeth Too Hard

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Swollen gums can also occur due to incorrect brushing techniques. The wrong toothbrush can cause swollen gums and create a lump. The wrong brushing technique is brushing too hard, causing swollen gums and even wounds. Although maintaining dental hygiene is important, brushing too hard actually has further effects on oral and dental health, such as swollen gums.

3. Infection Caused by Fungus and Virus

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Swollen gums can be experienced by everyone due to infection. The infection can be caused by fungus or virus that irritates the gums. One of the most common infections is canker sores. Canker sores can occur due to several factors such as viral or bacterial infection, hormonal influences, allergies, changes in immunity, and wounds. Canker sores generally appear on the gums, causing unbearable pain. As a result, canker sores sometimes cause swollen and painful gums.

To treat canker sores, they are usually treated with anti-bacterial mouthwash. Because mouthwash is known to help relieve canker sores. Consultation with a doctor is necessary to help address canker sores and swollen gums properly.

4. Hormonal Changes

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Swollen gums can also occur due to hormonal changes in the body. In women, hormonal changes can be marked by several conditions such as menstruation, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. During these periods, women usually experience hormonal changes that can affect their overall health, including causing swollen gums. According to personalcaredentistry.com, hormonal changes can increase blood flow to the gums, making them easily irritated.

5. Effects of Dentures or Braces

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Dentures and braces can also cause swollen gums. As we know, some people choose to use braces to address dental problems. However, the placement of dentures or braces can sometimes lead to swollen gums accompanied by unbearable pain. This condition usually occurs at the beginning of the placement, although there is a possibility of recurrence at any time. Consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary to receive appropriate treatment.

6. Vitamin Deficiency

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Swollen gums can also occur due to a deficiency of vitamins or nutrients. Oral health is known to require several vitamins and nutrients, especially minerals, vitamin B, and vitamin C. Insufficient intake of these nutrients and vitamins makes a person more susceptible to oral health problems, including swollen gums. In addition, a lack of vitamin C can also cause anemia-related health problems. Consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the exact amount of vitamins and nutrients needed in your body.

7. Irritation

Irritation can also cause swollen gums with a tingling and severe pain sensation. Allergies can occur due to food, toothpaste, medication, or other factors that affect gum and oral health. As a result, this irritation causes the gums to become red and swollen. Further treatment is needed to help alleviate swollen gums due to irritation.

8. Swollen Gums Due to Food

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Certain foods can also cause swollen gums. As previously known, plaque buildup between teeth can lead to gum health problems. One of the causes is food debris stuck in the gums and between teeth that may be difficult to clean. Meanwhile, certain foods like pizza, nachos, or coffee can trigger temporary mouth trauma and cause swollen gums.

9. Dental Problems

Swollen gums can also be caused by dental problems. This can occur due to misaligned or misshapen teeth. Further treatment is needed to receive proper care. One of the most common dental problems that cause swollen gums is tooth decay. Delayed treatment of dental problems can result in infection, including swollen gums.

10. Side Effects of Certain Medications

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The cause of swollen gums can also be due to the side effects of certain medications. Some drugs are known to cause effects on the gums, resulting in swelling and pain. One type of medication that can have this effect is blood pressure medication, but consultation with a doctor is necessary to determine the exact cause of swollen gums.

11. How to Treat Swollen Gums

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After understanding the causes of swollen gums, it is important to know how to naturally treat swollen gums. The following are ways to treat swollen gums that you can easily practice at home.

-Maintain oral hygiene.

-Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and brush gently.

-Stay hydrated.

-Consume healthy foods, especially those containing nutrients such as vitamin C and calcium.

-Be cautious when consuming hot or cold foods.

-Reduce stress.

Those are the 10 causes of swollen gums and easy ways to prevent them. Consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary if you experience persistent swollen gums that cause specific health problems.

(kpl/nlw)