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Red and Swollen: What Your Gums Might Be Telling You

A horizontal photo of a young worried woman in checkered shirt suffering from strong toothache and touching her cheek

Did you know that oral disease affects nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide? Perhaps you already noticed your gums are looking red and swollen. Although it’s simple to brush it off as a little annoyance, this can be an indication of something more serious.

Your gums are not only the foundation for healthy teeth; they can also reveal important clues about your overall health.

In this blog post, we will explore what your red swollen gums might be telling you and how to take care of them properly. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of gum health! 

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the term used to describe an infection of the gums. It is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss and other health problems. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth.

Plaque and calculus irritate the gums and cause them to swell and bleed. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into calculus (tartar). 

It’s best to go to a dentist immediately to prevent your dental problems from becoming much worse. If you need some info, you can go online and look for the “Top Dentist In My Area.”

Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is a tooth that has a pocket of pus around it. This can happen when bacteria get into the tooth, usually through a crack or chip in the tooth. The bacteria then start to multiply and the pus pocket forms.

Abscessed teeth can lead to painful gums, which, if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems. Visit your dentist straight away if you believe you may have an abscessed tooth.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious concern for anyone with swollen or red gums. Smoking, binge drinking, and exposure to specific strains of HPV are risk factors that can raise your risk of developing oral cancer. If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to be extra vigilant about monitoring your gum health and seeking medical attention if you notice any changes.

Diabetes

You may have dark red gums due to diabetes. When you have diabetes, your body is less able to fight off infection, so you may be more susceptible to gum disease.

Gum disease can also lead to other problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and even tooth loss. Keep your blood sugar under control if you have diabetes, and schedule frequent checks at the dentist.

Vitamin Deficiency

If you have puffy gums, it could be a sign of vitamin deficiency. Your body needs certain vitamins and minerals to function properly, and if you’re not getting enough of them, it can affect your gum health.

For instance, vitamin C is crucial for the synthesis of collagen, which keeps your gums firm and healthy. If you’re deficient in vitamin C, you may notice that your gums bleed easily or are inflamed. 

Treat Red Swollen Gums Immediately

Red swollen gums can be a sign of serious gum disease that requires immediate medical attention. Some reasons you have red and swollen gum are due to gingivitis, periodontal disease, abscessed tooth, oral cancer, diabetes, and vitamin deficiency.

It is important to see your dentist to treat swollen gums. Taking care of your oral health will help ensure that you enjoy a healthy smile for years to come.

Don’t want to stop learning? Keep browsing our site for more healthy tips and advice.

Written by Patricia

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