Health Encyclopedia

Gums - swollen

Definition

Swollen gums are abnormally enlarged, bulging, or protruding.

Alternative Names

Swollen gums; Gingival swelling

Considerations

Gum swelling is quite common and may involve one or many of the triangular-shaped bits of gum between nearby teeth. These sections are called papillae.

Occasionally, the gums swell significantly, blocking the teeth completely.

Common Causes

Gingivitis
Infection by a virus or fungus
Malnutrition
Poorly fitting dentures
Pregnancy
Sensitivity to toothpaste or mouthwash
Scurvy
Side effect of a drug such as Dilantin or phenobarbital

Home Care

Improve your nutrition if it is poor.

Avoid gum irritants such as commercial mouthwashes, alcohol, and tobacco. Change your toothpaste brand and avoid using mouthwashes if your swollen gums are caused by sensitivity to toothpaste or mouthwash.

Use good oral hygiene. See a periodontist or dentist at least every 6 months.

If your swollen gums are caused by a reaction to a drug, talk to your doctor about using a different type of medication. Never change medications without first talking to your doctor.

Call your health care provider if

Swelling is severe, persistent, or is accompanied by other unexplained symptoms
Discomfort is associated with swelling

What to expect at your health care provider's office

The dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, and gums. You will be asked questions about your medical history and symptoms, such as:

Quality
- Do your gums bleed?
Time pattern
- Did the swelling begin recently?
- Are they always swollen?
- Does the amount of swelling change?
- Does it only occur occasionally?
- Have you had gum problems before?
Oral hygiene habits
- How often do you brush?
- How often do you floss?
- How hard of a toothbrush is used?
- How vigorously do you brush?
- What are other habits (use of toothpicks or other)?
- When was the last time you had the teeth professionally cleaned (at the dentist)?
Eating habits
- Have you changed your diet?
- Do you eat adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables?
- Do you take supplemental vitamins?
Other
- What medications do you take?
- Are you pregnant?
- Have you changed mouthwash or toothpaste recently?
- What other symptoms do you have? For example, breath odor, sore throat, pain.

Tests may include blood studies such as a CBC or blood differential.

The patient will be taught proper mouth and gum care.

Review Date:5/28/2008
Reviewed By:Jason S. Baker, DMD, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Private Practice, Yonkers, New York. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

The Agency for Health Care Administration (Agency) and this website do not claim the information on, or referred to by, this site is error free. This site may include links to websites of other government agencies or private groups. Our Agency and this website do not control such sites and are not responsible for their content. Reference to or links to any other group, product, service, or information does not mean our Agency or this website approves of that group, product, service, or information.

Additionally, while health information provided through this website may be a valuable resource for the public, it is not designed to offer medical advice. Talk with your doctor about medical care questions you may have.