Do you have swollen gums? Are you looking for an explanation of what is causing your gums to be swollen? Below, you will find a list of four things that could be contributing to or causing your gums to swell and cause you the discomfort.

Gingivitis

One of the most common causes of swollen gums is gingivitis. Proper dental care practices are required to prevent gingivitis from occurring. If you aren't brushing, flossing, and rinsing twice every day, gingivitis could quickly become an issue. Along with swollen gums, you may notice bleeding when you brush and floss or see that your gums are redder than they are pink. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your dentist for treatment.

Hormonal Changes

Puberty and pregnancy cause hormonal changes in the body that can contribute to swollen gums. When hormones change, the body produces chemicals differently. Some of these chemicals can cause deposits to form around your teeth, which will eventually lead to swollen gums. If this is the cause of your swollen gums, your dentist will perform a scaling procedure. Scaling is the removal of extra deposits around your teeth. Once removed, you must pay special attention to your dental care routine to prevent the buildup from reoccurring.

Side Effects of Medications

Immunosuppressant, anticonvulsant, and calcium channel blocker drugs can all contribute or cause the swelling of gums. If you are taking any of these medications and your gums swell, talk with your doctor and your dentist about changing medications to put a stop to the discomfort of swollen gums. An alternative medication may be available that doesn't cause this side effect.

Vitamin C Deficiency

If you don't consume enough vitamin C each day, you could begin to suffer from the effects of vitamin C deficiency. One symptom of this deficiency is bright red, shiny gums that are swollen. In some cases, your gums may appear bluish and bleed excessively after brushing and flossing. Take a vitamin C supplement daily to increase your vitamin C consumption without exposing your teeth to the acids in fruits that are packed with the vitamin.

If you are experiencing swollen gums, don't hesitate tosee a doctor from a family dental clinic. He or she will be able to determine the cause and provide you tips for treating and preventing swollen gums from occurring again in the future. The treatment could be as simple as taking a supplement or having your teeth cleaned well. Don't continue suffering and putting your oral health at risk of further complications and damage.