Do you have swollen gums? Find out if it's gingivitis

At Appleday Dental Care in Mississauga, a common consultation is with patients who report noticing swelling in their gums for no apparent reason, which is understandably worrying for anyone. In many cases, these clinical cases are made worse after trying home remedies. To help you avoid making bad decisions about your oral health, Appleday Dental Care will explain what may be happening to your gums and how to fix it.

** This article is not intended to replace the assessment of an expert and is for informational purposes only.

What causes swollen gums?

There is a gum disease called “gingivitis” which is the most common cause of swollen gums, which tends to be accompanied by symptoms such as bleeding, discoloration, gum sensitivity, and gum recession. According to the CDHA (Canadian Dental Hygienist Association), approximately 16 million Canadians suffer from gingivitis and are not even aware of it.

But it’s not all about gingivitis. While it is a very common cause of gum inflammation, it can have many causes, including: smoking or tobacco use, hormonal changes associated with certain stages of life (pregnancy, puberty, menopause), stress, diabetes or other systemic diseases, and the use of certain medications.

It is important to visit the dentist at least once a year to stay informed about the state of your oral health. If you are in Mississauga, contact us.

But what is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a mild periodontal disease, but don’t be fooled, because if it is not treated properly, it can develop into periodontitis, a serious bacterial infection of the gums that destroys the tissue and bones that support your teeth.

What does it mean to be a mild periodontal disease? It means that the inflammation of the gums is caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque on the teeth and gums. This plaque is a sticky film formed by proteins in saliva and bacteria, which develops when proper oral hygiene is not practiced. If not removed in time, it can harden and turn into tartar, which worsens the inflammation.

As mentioned above, gingivitis is the initial stage of periodontal disease. Unlike periodontitis, gingivitis can be improved if treated early by adopting good hygiene habits and receiving regular professional dental care.

Risk factors for developing gingivitis

No one is immune to developing gingivitis, but certain bad habits or pre-existing conditions put you at greater risk. In our practice, we often encounter the following cases:

Poor oral health habits:

Such as brushing less than three times a day for at least two minutes. It is also important to floss and use mouthwash.

Smoking or chewing tobacco:

Smoking or chewing tobacco reduces blood flow and weakens the immune system, making infections more likely.

Advanced age:

In older people, we often find several risk factors at the same time, such as weaker immune systems, use of medications that can affect the gums, and poorer oral hygiene due to loss of motor skills.

Poorly done or worn-out dental repairs:

Such as fillings, dental implants, or veneers.

Crooked teeth:

Severe cases of dental crowding often make cleaning more difficult, requiring extra caution when brushing.

Health conditions:

These include conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV, leukemia, or cancer treatment.

How is swollen gums caused by gingivitis treated?

First, it is important to clarify that only your trusted dentist, who is personally familiar with your case, is qualified to recommend the appropriate treatment for your situation. In most cases, gingivitis treatment includes the following procedures and lifestyle changes:

Professional dental cleaning to remove accumulated plaque and tartar.
Improvements in daily oral hygiene, as recommended by your dentist. Generally, the use of a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day and flossing are recommended.
Antibacterial mouthwashes, as recommended by a professional.
Follow-up and regular check-ups to prevent relapses.

Preventing gingivitis: key habits

The good news is that it is possible to prevent gingivitis from returning by adopting good habits to improve oral health. Some essential recommendations are:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily.
Change your toothbrush every 3 months.
Maintain a balanced diet that is low in sugar.
Avoid tobacco
Have regular dental checkups

Oral health is directly related to a person’s quality of life. Healthy gums not only improve the appearance of your smile, but also help prevent more serious problems that can affect your overall health.

Overall well-being is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, and the prevention and early treatment of gingivitis contribute to better health, greater confidence, and daily well-being.

If you suspect you may have gingivitis or any other type of oral condition, at Appleday Dental Care we are here to evaluate your case and, together with our team of professional dentists in Mississauga, recommend the best treatment for your specific case. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.