How Long do Swollen Gums Last?
Swollen gums can be caused by many things, from something as simple as a piece of food stuck in the gums to gingivitis or worse. Because of this, if you are experiencing swollen gums, have tried brushing and flossing, and are still experiencing the swelling, it is recommended that you see your dentist, especially if the swollen gums don’t go away after 2-3 days.
What Causes Swollen Gums?
Healthy gums are pink and taut, swollen gums tend to be red and can be loosened. This is often one of the early signs of gum disease. Therefore, in this case, speak to your dentist as soon as possible to prevent it from deteriorating.
The most common cause of swollen gums (also known as gingivitis) is plaque bacteria that constantly builds up around, on, and between the teeth. The bacteria thrive particularly well when foods with carbohydrates (sugar and starch) are left in the mouth for long periods of time.
If the plaque bacteria are not removed (usually by brushing your teeth), the gums around the tooth can swell. This inflammation can ultimately spread to the tooth bed holding the tooth and even lead to more serious problems such as tooth inflammation (periodontitis).
General duration
It is not possible to give a specific time information about how long a gingivitis will last. There is one exception, however. During pregnancy, the hormones change in such a way that they increase vascular permeability and increase blood flow to the gums. If the hormonal balance changes after the birth, the gums can recover.
But even in these cases, each body reacts differently. The length of time alone varies as the inflammation comes on more quickly in some patients than in others. It depends on how good your oral hygiene is, how strong the immune system is. It even depends on how the teeth are aligned.
Chronic inflammation develops over several years. Acute inflammation occurs suddenly. Accordingly, the healing process is slower or faster. In addition, some patients respond to an antibiotic, while others have no effect from the antibiotic. Because of this, the course and duration cannot be generally predicted, which again, is why it is important to see your dentist at the first signs of swelling.
Treat swollen gums
In addition to dental care and regular check-ups, you can help remove plaque bacteria yourself and thereby help prevent swollen gums.
- Use daily fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth. It effective at removing plaque from the gumline (the area where the gums and teeth meet) and can thus contribute to the maintenance of healthy gums and strong teeth.
- Use an electric or manual toothbrush with soft rounded bristles and a small head. Pay close attention to the area where the gums and teeth meet.
- Use floss or interdental brushes to remove plaque bacteria from spaces between your teeth and other hard-to-reach areas.
- Use a mouthwash that has been developed to protect the gums on a daily basis.
- Go to the dentist regularly. The check-up can identify gum problems before symptoms show. If you observe bleeding gums, tell your dentist right away to start treatment before it gets worse.