Swollen gums are a fairly notable occurrence and most often a sign of something that’s easily treatable. But what does it mean if your gums are swelling around a single tooth? And what can you do to treat it the right way? Here are some of the most common causes of swelling around a single tooth, along with treatment advice from our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist to keep you smiling.
Food Debris
If you have swelling around just one tooth in your mouth, it may be because you didn’t get food debris out from under your gums, which can cause decay and inflammation. If you get the debris out early by brushing and flossing, the swelling may go away.
If you’re unable to resolve the problem on your own within a couple of days, make a visit with your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist. Left un cared for and this can cause gum disease.
Gum Disease
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost half of adults over 30 in the US have some form of gum disease. This condition is caused by bacteria built up around your gum-line and has turned into plaque (a soft, sticky, colorless film). In its earliest stages (gingivitis), you may experience red and swollen gums.
If your gingivitis goes untreated, your inflammation can develop into a more severe condition called periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause your tissue to recede, bone to wear away, teeth to loosen, and your teeth could even fall out.
Fortunately for you, gum disease is preventable by practicing good oral hygiene, and its more severe stages can be treated with deep cleaning (and, in some cases, surgery).
Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a small sac of pus in your gums caused by a bacterial infection. Most often, bacteria reach the blood vessels and nerves in your tooth’s pulp (the inner chamber) because of tooth decay or a broken or fractured tooth, but tooth abscesses can also be the result of gum disease.
Telltale signs include throbbing pain, red or swollen gums, a swollen jaw or face, a tender or sore tooth, a fever, and even a salty taste in your mouth. See your Rancho Cucamonga Dentist for treatment right away if you think you have an abscessed tooth. They usually aren’t dangerous, but in rare situations, the infection can spread and create serious complications.
Other Potential Causes
Other causes of swollen gums that could potentially occur around a single tooth include:
- Poorly fitting dentures or dental appliances
- Viral infection
- Fungal infection
- Side effects of medication
- Not getting enough nutrients
- Sensitivity to mouthwash or toothpaste
Learn How to Properly Prevent Swollen Gums
A majority of the causes of swollen gums are preventable by practicing good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day at a 45-degree angle, brushing away from your gums to remove debris at or below your gum-line. Clean between your teeth with floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers at least once a day.
Think about using other helpful products like antimicrobial mouth rinses and tongue scrapers. And be sure to see your dental professional for regular appointments. If your swollen gums last more than a few days or your condition concerns you, don’t wait until your next appointment.
Visit your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist right away for diagnosis and treatment. They’ll be able to help you get your oral health back to a condition you can smile about.