On a regular day while you’re brushing your teeth you might happen to notice that you have one tooth with the gum swollen around it. This might be surprising, especially if you haven’t noticed anything abnormal about your teeth before, but it’s actually not completely unusual.
In this post, we’ll talk about some of the reasons that your gums can get swollen, and what you can do to fix it.
Why Do I Have Gum Swelling Around One Tooth?
Normally, the gum tissue forms a very thin edge around the tooth, getting progressively thicker as it descends down the length of the tooth and protects the roots. However, if your gum has swollen in one particular area surrounding a tooth, it likely has to do with either poor hygiene or potential infection.
Signs of neglected hygiene can include red, swollen, or discolored gums. You might see some signs of gum disease as well, such as bleeding from your gums while brushing. Check whether you have bad breath or a persistent bad taste in your mouth. Both can indicate poor hygiene.
An abscess can also cause localized swelling. An abscessed tooth happens when bacteria infiltrate a tooth, either due to cavities or by developing below the gumline. You might experience pain and fever along with swelling.
Proper hygiene keeps the natural bacteria inhabiting your mouth under control. If left unchecked, these bacteria proliferate and attach to surfaces in the mouth via a sticky film of plaque. They can then proceed to develop under the gumline, which is what causes swollen gums and leads to gum disease.
How To Treat Gum Swelling
Treating gum swelling at home can be a simple matter of brushing and flossing regularly. This is especially true for mild cases of gum irritation.
Brush twice a day for a full two minutes each time to remove bacterial growth and food residue, and use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel. Floss before you brush to get all the gunk out of the crevices between your teeth.
To soothe swollen gums if you’re experiencing symptoms, rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution. Mix a cup of water with no more than a teaspoon of salt, swish it around your mouth for a minute before spitting it out. This can help relieve inflammation.
Visit a Professional Dentist for An Expert Opinion
There’s only so much you can do to combat swollen gums around a tooth, especially if your symptoms are causing you discomfort. That’s why the best option is usually to visit a qualified dentist. They can examine your oral cavity and recommend an effective treatment option for your individual needs.
Dynamic Dental Solutions is your premier family dentistry option in Baytown, TX. We provide exceptional dental services and care for all patients of all ages. Because of this, we’re proud to be a complete solution to all of your dental concerns. So if you have any questions about your oral health, feel free to give us a call at (281) 837-9090.