Gateway Family Dental Blog

Here's Why Your Gums Are So Red.

Have you ever looked at your smile and wondered why your gums look so swollen, puffy, and red? If so, you might be wondering what causes this unsightly appearance and irritation in the tissue surrounding your teeth--and how to prevent it.

Swollen, red gums are not only unattractive, they can signal some serious problems with the health of your teeth and mouth.

Today, we’re exploring the causes of red, swollen gums, and how you can fix it.

Gingivitis

The number one cause of red, swollen gums is gingivitis.

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by poor dental hygiene. When you don’t brush or floss regularly, bacteria and plaque builds up around the gums. The bacteria in plaque irritates the gums, causing a puffy, red appearance. It also causes infection that leads to bleeding when brushing or flossing.

The best way to prevent or reverse gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing and flossing twice per day, regularly rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash, and getting regular cleanings from your dentist.

The best way to prevent or reverse gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing twice per day and flossing once per day, regularly rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash, and getting regular dental cleanings from your dentist.

Periodontitis

Plaque is soft and sticky and easy to remove when it’s fresh. Poor oral hygiene, however, can lead to plaque turning into calculus, a hard, porous substance that cannot be removed with brushing or flossing. Calculus buildup can only be removed in a dental office using specialized tools and techniques.

If calculus isn’t removed, it can travel deep under the gums, creating pockets filled with bacteria and food particles. This causes even more irritation in the gum tissue, and over time, can lead to a condition called periodontitis.

Left untreated, periodontitis can cause gum recession, abscesses, infection and tooth loss.

If you have periodontitis, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for deep cleanings, including scaling and root planing, to help remove calculus buildup. It’s also vitally important to practice good dental hygiene. Brush twice per day, floss at least once per day, rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash and schedule regular exams and cleanings with your dentist.

Other Causes of Red Gums

Surprisingly, other conditions besides gingivitis and periodontitis can cause gums to look red and puffy.

Malnutrition, rough brushing and flossing, smoking, contraceptives, pregnancy and medical treatments like chemotherapy can cause irritation and bleeding in the gums.

If you’re concerned about your gums looking puffy, red or bleeding, talk to your dentist. He or she can offer treatment options, education on brushing and flossing and other help on improving your gum health.