Most Common Swollen Gum Causes

Brushing your teeth and notice something a little off in the mirror? Do your gums look inflamed around just one tooth? You’re not going crazy. There are many reasons why your gums may be swollen around a single tooth. Gums are incredibly good indicators of not just oral health, but overall general health. Our gums can tell us a lot. Continue reading to find out the most common swollen gum causes, especially only around just a singular tooth.

Flossing Abrasion

If you see just one part of your gums swollen around a tooth, it could be due to an aggressive hygiene habit. You could be flossing your teeth too hard and have irritated an area of your gums. If you press too hard into the gum with your floss, you can actually cut the gums.

This will usually heal on its own after a few says have passed. To prevent this kind of irritation from occurring in the future, make sure to pay special attention to managing your teeth with care and to floss thoroughly but gently. Your mouth will thank you!

Abscessed Tooth

Another reason your gums might be swollen around is due to an abscessed tooth. This health condition is a little more serious than the previously listed one. An abscessed tooth is at its core a tooth infection. If you feel sharp pains in your gum, increased sensitivity or tenderness, you may have an abscessed tooth. This kind of infection can be caused by untreated cavities and bacterial infections. If left untreated, the infection can spread throughout the mouth, causing excessive damage.

To treat this condition, you will need to go visit your dentist. They will be able to prescribe the appropriate course of action. Antibiotics or oral surgery might be necessary to fix the tooth.

Gum Disease

This last reason your gums could be swollen is far more serious which is why you need to ensure you are paying attention to your gums each and every time you are brushing your teeth. Gum disease is a condition in which your gums becomes dry, swollen and red. The disease is most dangerous because if not treated, it can destroy your jaw, when it spreads to the bone from the gum. If not treated immediately, this very severe consequence can occur. The moment you notice the symptoms of gum disease starting to occur, contact your dental professional immediately. Gum disease can occur when plaque builds up in the mouth and is left untouched. It can harbor bacteria and infect the gum. It is also a risk factor for heart and lung disease.

The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice healthy oral hygiene practices. Make sure you are brushing and flossing twice daily. Make sure you are doing so in a gentle yet effective way. It is also important to be visiting your dentist on a regular basis. Your teeth are key to your health so it is vital to properly take care of them.

Dentist in Los Angeles

Dedicated to the highest standards in medicine, Dr. Zabolian is the premiere cosmetic dentist. With years of experience and positive patient satisfaction, you are in the best possible hands. Contact Samaritan Dental Arts today if you have more questions about common swollen gum causes. Healthcare professionals await your inquiry and are ready and willing to help with all concerns.