Swollen or puffy gums happen to everyone from time to time. You may notice while brushing your teeth one day that your gums are swollen or irritated. It is good to know that there are many possible causes of swollen or irritated gums. But what if your gums are swollen around just one tooth? This is actually a common experience and may be explained by a number of factors. Below is more information on what it means if your gums are swollen around just one tooth.
Possible Causes of Swollen Gums around a Tooth
A number of possible reasons may explain why your gums are swelling in just one area:
Poor oral hygiene: If you are not brushing and flossing daily, you may be leaving small pieces of food behind that can cause inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can lead to gum disease. Common signs of poor oral hygiene include swollen gums, bleeding while brushing, and bad breath.
Gum disease: When food and bacteria are not removed and allowed to build up on the teeth it can infect the gum tissue. This bacteria causes inflammation which can lead to gum disease. Approximately 50-75% of adults in the United States have some form of gum disease. Warning signs of gum disease may include sensitive teeth, tender gums, or pockets developing between the gums and teeth.
Abscess: If a cavity, or a small hole in the tooth, is left untreated it can allow bacteria into the tooth. This bacteria can create an abscess. Common symptoms of an abscess include gums swollen around the infected tooth, a swollen jaw, and a fever. If you think you may have an abscess tooth it is important to schedule an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. If left untreated, the infection can cause serious damage to your jawbone and throughout the body.
Tips to Treat Swollen Gums
If you have swollen gums, but do not have other serious symptoms, you can try treating them at home. If your gums have been swollen for over 2 weeks, you should consider calling your dentist. Here are few remedies you can try at home before you see your
dentist:
Saltwater rinse: Rinsing your mouth with saltwater two to three times a day can help reduce inflammation and bacteria in the mouth.
Tea tree oil rinse: Adding drops of tea tree oil to 8 ounces of warm water can also be used to create a rinse to reduce swelling and inflammation in the mouth.
Turmeric gel: Applying turmeric gel to your gums daily may help prevent plaque and gingivitis. After 10 minutes, you should rinse the gel off with clean water.
Preventing Swollen Gums Around a Tooth
To prevent swollen gums around a tooth, the most important thing you can do is maintain proper daily oral hygiene. The steps for proper oral hygiene include:
* Brushing twice daily after meals and before bedtime to remove bacteria
* Flossing at least once daily
* Maintaining regular dental exams and professional cleanings every 6 months