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Dec
Gum Swelling Treatment Guide: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
When you have swollen gums, it can impact how you speak and eat and even affect your smile. Swollen gums are often a sign of an underlying oral health issue, so it’s important to identify what caused your gums to swell. Drs. Jonathan and Gretchen Kelley at Kelley Family Dental Center can help you understand the cause of the swelling and recommend treatment options for gum swelling.Â
What Causes Gum Swelling?
Also called gingival swelling, swollen gums occur when the soft tissue around your teeth becomes inflamed. Gum swelling can be caused by many different things, including poor oral hygiene, buildup of plaque, and gum infections that include gingivitis or periodontitis. Gums can also become inflamed because of other factors, such as hormonal changes, deficiencies of certain vitamins, or allergies.Â
What Are the Symptoms Associated With Swollen Gums?
When you have swollen gums, you may notice symptoms such as:
- Darkened or red gums
- Gums bleed when you brush or floss
- Gums that are painful or tender
- Bad breath that you can’t get rid of
- Receding gumlines
- In severe cases, pus between your teeth and gums
How Do I Know When My Gum Swelling Is Serious?
The first sign of serious gum swelling is when your gums are swollen for more than a week. Also, if your gums are bleeding or intensely painful, it could mean you have an infection or advanced gum disease. When chewing is difficult, it can also indicate a more serious condition. If you have a fever, it’s important to see an emergency dentist right away.Â
Will Gum Swelling Go Away By Itself?
In mildly swollen gums, the swelling may go away on its own if you improve your oral hygiene. For example, you can rinse with warm salt water and avoid irritating substances like tobacco products. However, if the swelling continues or gets worse, you will need to visit a dentist.Â
What Is Deep Cleaning for Gums?
The clinical term for “deep cleaning” is scaling and root planing. This procedure is a non-surgical approach to treating gum disease. For deep cleaning, Drs. Kelley use special tools to remove plaque and tartar that has built up below the gumline. They also clean the roots of your teeth and smooth them to help prevent future accumulation of bacteria.Â
Where Can I Find a Gum Disease Dentist Near Me in Albuquerque, New Mexico?
For gum swelling treatment in Albuquerque, NM, get in touch with Drs. Kelley of Kelley Family Dental Center. Using advanced technology and treatments, we are uniquely qualified to help you treat gum disease. Call 505-898-4504 today to schedule your appointment.Â
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Dr. Jonathan Kelley
Dr. Jonathan Kelley received his Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology from Idaho State University and his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from Marquette University School of Dentistry. During this time, he was the Class President for four years, Student Body President in his senior year, and Ethics Committee Chairman for his school’s American Student Dental Association Chapter.
Dr. Gretchen Kelley
Dr. Gretchen Kelley received her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis and her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Marquette University School of Dentistry, where she met her husband, Dr. Jonathan.
Both doctors are members of the American Dental Association and New Mexico Dental Association.