Know What Is Behind Swollen Gums

For most people with swollen gums, they did not wake up one morning and discover their gums were poking out from between their teeth. While the severity of the problem may have appeared to happen all at once, chances are there were some warning signs the individual ignored. Chances are when someone is experiencing swollen gums there is a lot of plaque built up between the gums and the teeth. This build up causes an infection which presents itself as swollen gums. The only way to reduce the swelling is to embark on a better regimen of oral hygiene. In some cases antibiotics may be required.

One of the main causes of plaque is bacteria in the mouth is allowed to accumulate in hidden areas in the mouth. Brushing and flossing can remove a majority of the bacteria, but some of it will remain hidden between the gums and teeth. If left to its own devices, these bacteria will form a thin film on the teeth (referred to as plaque) and can develop into gingivitis and subsequently into periodontitis. This can result in tooth decay as well as swollen and bleeding gums.

Mouthwash can kill many of the bacteria that remain after brushing. However, mouthwashes containing alcohol also dry out the mouth, removing saliva that helps prevent the growth of bacteria. The lack of oxygen promotes bacterial growth as well as promotes bad breath, often leaving the person with breath that smells metallic or similar to sulfur.

Using toothpaste or mouthwash offering an oxidizing action can help kill many more bacteria than brushing with regular toothpaste. Additionally, natural products used with naturally oxidizing toothpaste will kill bacteria. This combination can leave the breath fresher while not promoting an environment favorable to the continued growth of bacteria and plaque.

When brushing the teeth, attention should also be paid to the gums. However, if bleeding occurs to sensitive gums (especially along the line where they meet the teeth) gentle brushing should be used until the gums become stronger. Brushing alone is not part of a good oral hygiene process, as some food particles and existing plaque can escape the brush's effort. Flossing is an additional step required to help remove particles that can allow plaque to form, leading to swollen gums and bad breath.

As important as regular brushing is to oral health as well as overall general health, using the right toothpaste and mouthwash is equally important. The use of products simply because they taste good or make the teeth feel fresh is not a guarantee they will kill bacteria that can lead to more health complications than swollen gums and bad breath.