Swollen or painful gums: what to do and when to worry

Swollen gums are uncomfortable and can have several causes. Some are minor, but some need treatment, so it helps to know the difference.

Why do gums swell?

• Plaque and gum inflammation, the most common cause. The gums are red, puffy and bleed on brushing. See gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
• Food or a hair stuck between teeth or under the gum.
• A wisdom tooth coming through, where gum can cover part of the tooth and trap food.
• A gum abscess, an infected pocket with a painful swelling, sometimes a bump that leaks.
• Irritation from braces, dentures or a broken tooth.
• Hormonal changes, such as in pregnancy.
• A mouth ulcer or injury.

What can you do at home?

• Rinse gently with warm water with a little salt, a few times a day.
• Brush and clean the area gently so it stays clean. Do not avoid it.
• Use floss carefully to remove stuck food.
• A cold pack on the outside of the cheek can ease swelling.

What not to do

• Do not squeeze or cut a swelling or bump.
• Do not put a tablet or any chemical on the gum. It can burn the tissue.
• Do not take pain medicine without checking what is safe for you, especially if you are pregnant, take other medicines or have a health condition.

When you need help the same day

Come in or go to an emergency department if:

• the swelling spreads to your face, eye or neck
• you have fever with the swelling
• you find it hard to swallow, breathe or open your mouth

These can be signs of a spreading infection. Read also toothache: what to do before your appointment.

When to see a dentist

See a dentist if swelling lasts more than a few days, comes back, or comes with a bump on the gum. Swollen gums often settle with a scaling and better cleaning. Dental care is available at both our clinics, in Sayan and on Chhaprabhatha-Variyav Road. Use the booking button below to ask for an appointment.

Related reading: wisdom teeth: what they are and why they cause trouble.