A swollen gum around one tooth can occur for many reasons, including poor dental hygiene and periodontal disease. People should visit the dentist if the swelling persists for more than a week. An earlier appointment is necessary if a person suspects a tooth abscess.
When should I see a dentist for swollen gums?
When to See the Dentist
If your gums hurt or bleed for more than a week, head for your dentist’s chair. Red, swollen gums that bleed easily are a sign of the gum disease gingivitis. You can get your gums back to normal by brushing and flossing regularly and getting your teeth cleaned regularly.
Can dentist help with swollen gums?
Swollen gums are relatively common. The good news is, there’s a lot you can do at home to help alleviate swelling and minimize discomfort. If your gums remain swollen for more than a week, make an appointment with your dentist. They can diagnose the exact cause of the swelling, and recommend a treatment plan.
What is the fastest way to heal swollen gums?
10 Simple Ways to Relieve Painful Gums
- Warm and Cold Compresses. A great and easy way to relieve painful gums is by applying compresses on your gum to relieve your pain. …
- Salt Water Rinses. …
- Hydrogen Peroxide. …
- Tea Bags. …
- Tea Tree Oil. …
- Turmeric Paste. …
- Over-the-Counter Pain Killers. …
- Oral Anaesthetic Gels.
How do you treat inflamed gums?
How to get rid of inflamed gums?
- Brush up on your brushing technique. Brush less vigorously to avoid damaging the tissue around your teeth, which can inflame gums. …
- Floss diligently. …
- Rinse regularly. …
- Brush with a gum care formula. …
- Use an anti-gingivitis toothpaste. …
- Improve your nutrition. …
- De-Stress.
Does a swollen gum mean infection?
An Infection
Swollen gums can indicate that you have a viral or fungal infection. One type of fungal infection that can cause your gums to swell is thrush. If you also notice a strange white rash, talk to your doctor so that they can prescribe you with an antifungal medication.
How long does it take to heal inflamed gums?
Treatment Time for Gingivitis
But for those with gingivitis due to poor oral hygiene, the average time it takes for gingivitis to go away is about 10 to 14 days after your treatment, along with proper oral healthcare.
Does swollen gums mean cavity?
An abscessed tooth is often the result on an untreated cavity that has allowed bacteria to infect your tooth. Symptoms of an abscessed tooth may include: pain. swollen gums.
How do you know your gums are infected?
Signs that you may have infected gums include:
- Gums that are swollen, tender or bleeding.
- Receding gums.
- Pus coming from the gums.
- Chronic bad breath.
- Loose teeth.
- A noticeable change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
What does a gum abscess look like?
A periodontal abscess is a pocket of pus in the tissues of the gum. It looks like a small red ball pushing out of the swollen gum. An abscess can occur with serious gum disease (periodontitis), which causes the gums to pull away from the teeth. This leaves deep pockets where bacteria can grow.
Is Listerine good for swollen gums?
LISTERINE® Antiseptic Mouthwash has the power to kill germs that can lead to inflamed gums and gum disease. Plus, it helps reduce 52% more plaque than brushing and flossing alone.
Does ibuprofen help swollen gums?
Rinse your mouth with saltwater. Salt helps reduce swollen gums and eases the pain that comes with them too. Try anti-inflammatory medication. Over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen can help reduce the swelling and provide pain relief.
Does rubbing salt on gums help?
The results of a 2016 study showed that using a salt water rinse can be very beneficial in healing gums inflamed by gingivitis. Salt is a natural disinfectant that helps your body to heal itself. Salt water may also: soothe inflamed gums.
Can salt water rinse heal gum infection?
Salt Water Rinse
One way you can help your gums to heal is by rinsing with a salt water solution. Dissolve ½ to one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. This solution helps to soothe irritated gum tissue as well as draw out infection, allowing your gums to heal.
What is the best antibiotic for gum infection?
Metronidazole (Flagyl): This antibiotic may be prescribed to those patients suffering from severe periodontitis. Metronidazole works best when used in a combination with amoxicillin or tetracycline. Ciprofloxacin: This antibiotic is used to specifically target A.
What is the best medicine for swollen gums?
Over-the-counter pain medication. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can help ease dental and oral discomfort. A person may see the best results when they combine over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers with home remedies, such as gargling with a salt water solution.