Inflamed Gums

Inflamed gums can be a symptom of some serious gum diseases. However, occasionally, it can also be caused by trauma or irritation of the gums. Sometimes, it can be accompanied by excruciating pain. Gum inflammation, most commonly results from a lack of proper oral hygiene.

Inflammation of the Gums

Causes
Gum injury or irritation, due to harsh brushing can be one of the most common causes of this condition. However, such minor irritation or trauma usually do not require medical attention, and can be prevented in the future with appropriate dental care. However at times, it can indicate a more serious complication than minor irritation.

Gingivitis refers to an inflammation of the gums, which can result, when proper oral hygiene is not maintained with regular brushing and flossing. It is caused by the deposition of food particles in the small gap between the gum and the teeth. This eventually, causes the formation of plaque, which over a period of time, can lead to the development of tartar. Such a condition creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth, that can lead to infection and inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis can ultimately lead to periodontal disease, which is characterized by red inflamed gums. This disease attacks the bones that support the teeth, which causes the teeth to loosen from the gums and then fall out. Apart from gum diseases, poorly fitting dentures, malnutrition, certain medications and scurvy (caused by vitamin C deficiency) can also cause this gum problem. Occasionally, gum inflammation can be caused by the development of canker sores on the gum.

Symptoms
Swelling or inflammation, tenderness, pain and bad breath are some of the most common symptoms of this condition. In addition to these, the color of the gum can change from pink to bright and flushing red color. They have been observed to become prone to easy bleeding, even if irritated slightly. So, if such gums get irritated, while brushing the teeth or eating any sharp-edged food, they can bleed quite easily.

Treatment
If minor trauma or injury is the cause of gum inflammation, then the condition can resolve on its own, without requiring any medication. However, if it is a symptom of a more serious condition, then it would require proper treatment and medications. In such a situation, treatment would be dependent on the underlying causes. If it is caused by the gum disease, gingivitis, then physicians will remove the plaque and tartar formed in the space between the gum and the teeth. To treat periodontitis, the physicians will also remove the inflamed tissues, along with the plaque formed. So, each specific cause can be treated with different treatment options. However, to get temporary relief from the pain and inflammation, physicians may suggest analgesics or anti-inflammatory medications.

Home Remedy
Certain home remedies can help to ease the swelling and pain caused by this condition. They are:

• Saline water is an excellent home remedy for the problems of the oral cavity. Gurgling your mouth with saline water several times a day, can help to reduce the gum pain and speed up the healing process.
• Ice, if applied on the inflamed and sore gums can provide quick relief from the pain and inflammation.
• You can apply a paste of baking soda and water on the gum, to prevent the growth of bacteria inside the mouth. However, do not message or rub the gum with baking soda.
• Aloe vera gel is another excellent home remedy for gum pain relief.
• You can also apply clove oil on the affected gum. It is known to have antiseptic properties, and can treat various gum and teeth diseases.
• Like clove oil, tea tree oil also has antiseptic properties and hence, can be used for inflamed and painful gums.

The most important way to prevent the recurrences of gum diseases and gum inflammation is to maintain proper oral hygiene. Regular brushing with a soft toothbrush, and flossing are the two most important parts of dental care. However, people new to flossing, as well as those with inflamed gums can experience certain problems to begin with. As for example, after flossing sensitive gums can bleed a little, especially if the technique of flossing is not correct. So, be sure to floss your teeth in the correct way, and get regular dental exams, twice in a year.