What Does it Mean When Gums are Puffy?
Gums play a major role in our oral health, and also are overall health and well-being. In most cases, puffy, swollen and bleeding gums are a sign of gum disease. However, there are other things that could be causing your gums to swell and be irritated. Below is more information on what it could mean if you have puffy and swollen gums and some tips on how to treat them.
Common Causes of Puffy Gums
If you have noticed your gums are puffy, you may be wondering why. If you notice the condition has lasted for more than 2 weeks you should contact your dentist and schedule an appointment. Before you go, here are some possible causes to consider:
- Brushing Technique: With the right intention of trying to keep your teeth and gums clean, you might be brushing your teeth too vigorously. It is important to remember your gums are made of delicate tissue, and aggressive brushing could damage them. Try switching to a tooth brush with soft nylon bristles that have blunted ends. When you brush, use gentle, circular motions to clean the teeth and gums. The back-and-forth motion that is commonly used can irritate and damage your gums, making them puffy and red.
- Flossing Technique: Daily flossing plays an important role in removing plaque from places where the toothbrush can't reach. But, flossing too aggressively can also cause swollen or bleeding gums. Try your best to slide the floss up and down, following the curve of each tooth.
- Gum Disease: More than 75% of American adults have gum disease. Not practicing proper dental hygiene, allows bacteria to collect and turn into plaque on the teeth. The buildup of plaque can cause your gums to become puffy and red or even bleed. Puffy gums are a sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis, if caught early, can be treated and reversed. Left untreated, gingivitis can worsen and ultimately lead to tooth loss.
- Tobacco Products: Using cigarettes and other tobacco products can severely damage the gums. If you smoke regularly, you may notice your habit is causing irritation to your gums, or even bleeding and painful sores.
Gums and Hormones Some women have gum problems linked to their hormones and menstruation cycles. For example, the rise in hormones caused by pregnancy can cause sore, swollen, and bleeding gums. Less common, some women find during menopause that their gums become dry and sore.
Tips to Preventing Swollen Gums
Gently brush your teeth at least twice each day and floss daily: Daily hygiene may be the most important thing you can do to prevent gum problems.
- Use mouthwash: Rinsing with mouthwash kills bacteria that cause gum disease.
- Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet will help maintain the health of your gums and mouth.
- Drink water: Drinking sufficient water daily can help wash food off your teeth and will help saliva production, both reducing plaque.
- Don’t smoke or chew tobacco: If you smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products, try to quit.