Puffy or Bleeding Inflamed Gums
The Causes
The serious discomfort from swollen, bleeding or inflamed gums is usually from gum disease. When the bacteria that causes plaque is not properly and regularly removed from the teeth, it can get trapped between the gums and the root of the teeth. The bacteria then inflame the gum tissue and start to erode the tooth while causing permanent damage to the gum tissue. The early stage of gingivitis is mild and can be reversed. If you have noticed that your gums bleed when you brush your teeth or floss, then you may want to tell the dentist about the changes at your next dental appointment. The later stage of periodontitis is more serious and usually causes more pain and inflammation. You may notice your teeth are starting to loosen or your gums are more painful.
If you are not brushing or flossing with the proper technique, use tobacco products, are receiving chemotherapy treatment, experiencing hormonal changes or even using dental or orthodontic hardware, your gums may be more painful or irritated than usual.
Treatment
Your gums may be inflamed now, but they can be addressed and returned to a healthy state. There are some steps at home between twice yearly dental appointments that you can do every day to help improve your gum health.
- Brushing Technique- Using a soft bristled toothbrush, avoid vigorous motions to prevent tissue damage. A steady, but gentle back and forth motion will give you the best results.
- Flossing Habit- Brushing is not able to remove all the food and bacteria from your mouth so flossing can help prevent plaque and tartar from building up in your mouth. Sliding the floss along the sides of your teeth to gumline will prevent damaging your gums.
- Rinsing Helps- After brushing and flossing, using an oral rinse can remove the loosened food particles and neutralize bacteria to prevent plaque. An oral rinse can be used anytime no matter where you are after meals and snacks as a great way to keep gum disease from causing puffy or bleeding gums.
- Specialized Toothpaste- Talk to the dentist about the best option for you, but a toothpaste that specializing in treating gingivitis, weakened enamel, or sensitive gums may give your mouth the best opportunity to heal and to stay healthy.
- Nutrition and Diet- Not only does a well-balanced diet low in sugar and high in Vitamin C and calcium help keep your body as a whole healthy, but it helps your gums from swelling. Drinking plenty of water is a part of your healthy and balanced daily intake.
- Eliminate or Minimize Stress- When you are in a stressed state, your body will release a hormone called cortisol. That specific hormone increases inflammation all over your body including in your gums. Taking the time to meditate, step away from work, and practice self-care are all great ways to unwind.
If you have noticed your gums are more swollen or are starting to bleed when you are brushing or flossing, take the time to make an appointment with the dentist. A professional cleaning may help you eliminate the inflammation and the dentist can share tips for at home maintenance.