Dealing with Swollen Gums
What to Do if You Have Reoccurring Swollen Gums
Anyone who has experienced swollen gums knows that it can be an uncomfortable and sometimes very painful experience that makes it hard to do normal things like eat, talk, chew gum or drink either hot or cold beverages. While there are a number or reasons why swollen gums occur – injury, poor dental hygiene - one of the most common reasons for swollen gums is the presence of a periodontal infection, also known as a gum infection. For many of us, these gum infections happen few and far between or possibly never, but for some reoccurring periodontal infections can be both painful and a cause for concern about their overall dental health.
Swollen Gums Can be a Warning Sign
Periodontal infections can sometimes be a warning sign for other oral and dental issues that could happen later on. Those who have recurring gum infections are likely showing signs for what is known as a periodontal abscess, and they should immediately make an appointment to see their dentist. An abscess in the gums, or anywhere in the body, is a sac filled with pus and infection that can be easily drained by a dental professional to contain the infection and help relieve the pain.
How Dentists Correct Periodontal Abscesses
When patients see their dental professional to have an abscess drained, the procedure is relatively straight forward. The dentist administers a small amount of local anesthesia to the infected area, and once that has taken effect, the dentist then carefully pierces the gums and drains the infection, which eliminates the patient’s pain in a matter of seconds. To help ensure the disinfection and healing of the area, the dentist may also prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication and antibiotics.
Managing Swollen Gum Pain before the Dentist
Patients who are experiencing recurring or long term gum pain should make an appointment to see their dentist. However, should the pain be unbearable before making it to the dentist, there are some ways to manage the symptoms. First, make sure to brush teeth at least twice a day and consider switching to an electric toothbrush for better gum stimulation. Also, make sure to floss on a daily basis and also consider using an antiseptic mouthwash to prevent the overpopulation of bacteria in the mouth. Finally, patients who are suffering from severe pain can try over the counter pain medication or numbing gel.
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