Inflamed gums are a common oral dental problem, and here are some symptoms of inflamed gums:
- Red gums. The normal, healthy gums are usually pink in color. However, due to infection, inflamed gums change its color into red shade.
- Bleeding. People with inflamed gums usually experience bleeding gums while brushing their teeth and while eating.
- Bulging, swollen and soft to touch. People may feel that there is something between their teeth, when in fact there is nothing there, but their swollen gums.
- Extra sensitive to hot or cold. Eating and drinking too hot or cold drinks or food can cause pain on the gum area.
- Bad breath. Most often people with inflamed gums will also have bad breath. Bad breath is a sign of accumulated bad bacteria in the mouth.
- Often pain aggravated on chewing is also a symptom associated with gum disease and tooth decay.
What Causes Inflamed Gums?
Before trying out any home remedies and ways to treat inflamed gums, it is important to be aware on what are the possible causes of inflamed gums.
- Poor oral hygiene. Improper brushing, not flossing, and not having regular dental checkups can be the main culprit of inflamed gums. Inflamed gums are usually caused by bacterial and viral infections, and when they accumulate inside the mouth, they make the gums swell and extra sensitive.
- Gingivitis. This is a condition when bacteria builds up on the border between the teeth and the gums, when this happens, the gums becomes infected and inflamed.
- Fungal infection. Yeast infection, such as the presence of Candida albicans, is said to cause inflamed gums. The fungal growth is actually due to the chemical changes inside the mouth.
- Poorly-fitting dentures. Dentures that have not been adjusted for a long time can increase the chances of having inflamed gums.
- Allergic reactions to toothpastes and mouthwash. There are people who are extra sensitive to toothpastes and mouthwash and the usual allergic reactions of these people are inflamed gums.
- Malnutrition. Improper diet and lack of vitamins and nutrients can cause inflamed gums. People who are malnourished have weak immune system and are prone to viral and bacterial infections.
How to Get Rid of Inflamed Gums?
After learning the possible causes of inflamed gums, it is now time to know what the possible remedies for inflamed gums are. So here are some ways on how to get rid of inflamed gums:
- Proper oral hygiene. Inflamed gums are usually caused by improper oral hygiene which results to viral and bacterial infections. Proper brushing after each meal, flossing and mouthwashes can really prevent viral and bacterial build up.
- Regular dental checkups. It is important to see the dentist regularly, at least twice a year and have regular dental cleaning. For people with dentures, make sure that the dentist adjusts the dentures for proper fit.
- Eating the right kinds of foods. Eating fruits and vegetables can help strengthen the immune system and fight off infections. Eat foods also rich in Omega 3, as it can help with the inflammation.
- Salt wash. Gargling water with salt can help kill bacteria inside the mouth and lessen the inflammation.