Swollen teeth and gums can be potentially serious and painful and it’s mostly a result of bacterial infection. In this article, we look at what might cause swelling of the teeth, what to do when you experience it, and the ways that you can use it to get rid of the discomfort that you are experiencing.
It’s worth understanding that you have to reach out to your dentist as soon as you start experiencing signs of tooth swelling. But if the swelling is accompanied by swelling in your face and fever, you need to visit the emergency room.
Possible causes of gum and tooth swelling
No matter the severity of your gum and tooth swelling, here are some of the possible causes.
1. Tooth Abscess
This normally results from a bacterial infection and occurs at the tip of the root, or on its side. The abscess is pus-filled and can cause some serious discomfort. It can be attributed to dental work, injury, or to a cavity and can provide a way for bacteria to get inside and infect the tooth. When you have abscesses, you suffer from an excruciating toothache that you feel in your jawbone, ear, and neck. Others are fever, sensitivity to hot or cold temperature, and sensitivity to chewing and biting. Swelling on the face and neck areas also becomes popular.
2. Irritation of wisdom teeth
Although the growth and eruption of wisdom teeth is a natural process, there are instances where it might lead to swelling. Wisdom teeth get swollen if the teeth get trapped inside your gums. After the breakthrough, the teeth may create some spaces where bacteria can make the gums infected.
3. Gingivitis
Gingivitis, which is an early form of gum disease, can cause the swelling of teeth and gums. But with proper oral care, this can be addressed.
Pain relief and treatment for tooth swelling
When thinking about curing a swollen tooth; over the counter medicines have been proven to be effective. Moreover, there are various home remedies that can help to produce the desired results. At home, you can gargle warm salty water which will assist to rinse away the bacteria. Also available for your use are painkillers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen which help to minimize soreness and swelling.
You should know that your mouth is filled with bacteria and even if you are a dedicated tooth brusher, there is no guarantee that your teeth cannot be swollen. However, excellent oral care is still the best way to avoid swollen teeth and gums. Brush your teeth twice every day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily.
Dental experts may prescribe antibiotics and several other medications that may assist in targeting the infection. Make sure that you get treated the soonest because this helps to eliminate the infection and ensure that you get back to a healthy and pain-free smile.
