There are several different reasons why you may have swollen gums, a few of the most common reasons behind swollen gums include:
 
• Gingivitis
Gingivitis is one of the most common swollen gum issues we see. It is a common cause that makes the gums quite irritated which is when they become swollen, and start to bleed. Many do not even know they have gingivitis as the symptoms can be quite mild. However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to a serious condition which is known as periodontitis and possibly tooth loss.
 
• Pregnancy
Swollen gums often occur in women who are pregnant, this is often due to the rush of hormones that occur in the body during pregnancy which causes an increase in blood flow directly to the gums. The increase in blood flow can cause the gums to be easily irritated, which leads to swelling and possible bleeding.
 
• Malnutrition
If an individual is deficient in vitamins, particularly vitamins B and C, it can cause the gums to swell. Vitamins play an important role in the body, and some can be important in repairing teeth and gums. If your body is low in certain vitamins it can cause certain infections and diseases to occur like scurvy. Scurvy can cause gum disease, as well as anemia.
 
• Infection
Infections that can be caused by fungi and other viruses can cause swollen gums. If you have been diagnosed with herpes, this can lead to a condition that is called acute herpetic gingivostomatitis, which can lead to swollen gums.
 
Thrush is another example, which is the result of an overgrowth of naturally occurring yeast within the mouth, which is known as gum swelling. If left untreated, dental decay will occur and lead to a dental abscess, which can cause gum swelling as well.

While many may not even know they have infected gums, as signs and symptoms do not show, there are still many signs and symptoms that showcase themselves with gingivitis, they include:
 
• Swollen gums, can be tender and even bleed
• Gums that begin to recede
• Pus that starts to come from the gums
• Prolonged bad breath
• Teeth that are loose
• Noticeable changes in the way the teeth begin to fit together when the patient bites down

If gingivitis goes untreated, it can lead to a serious case of periodontitis. Periodontal disease occurs in four separate stages, each stage worse than the last.
 
Stage 1: Gingivitis – This is the ONLY reversible stage. After this, the condition is set in stone and has already begun to attack the bones. Bleeding gums are one of the first signs and symptoms of gingivitis. Many patients with gingivitis have painless symptoms, but one of the things that occur with periodontal disease is quite common. Proper oral hygiene, as well as regular dental exams and routine dental cleanings, can all help to treat gingivitis and reverse it completely.
 
Stage 2: Slight Periodontal Disease – This is the second stage of gum disease, if gum disease gets to this stage, it is no longer reversible, but it is still manageable. At this stage, the spread of the periodontal disease has reached the bones and begun to damage them. The bacteria are becoming more aggressive, which is making bone loss so susceptible. Dental and endodontic clinics will use techniques like scaling and root planning to deep clean the teeth’s gums and remove the unwanted deposits of bacteria.
 
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontal Disease – This is the third stage of periodontal disease that has much deeper deposits where the bacteria has attacked the bones and the bloodstream. This is when periodontal specialists use the same previous technique which is scaling and root planning to thoroughly clean out the gums.
 
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontal Disease – the final stage of periodontal disease, which is when the infection contains a disease-causing bacterium. This final stage causes swelled, red gums that often contain pus, painful chewing as well as biting, severely bad breath, loose teeth, and bone loss. This stage will require surgery to help the deep-filled bacteria pockets in the gums.

Regular dental checkups with our clinic, as well as cleanings, will help to identify and prevent oral health issues before they become bigger problems.
 
A few medical treatments that cause oral issues may include:

• Medicated mouthwash
• Ointments
• Toothpaste
• Flossing regularly
• Avoiding certain things like sugary drinks, tobacco products, and sharp foods
 
Visit our clinic for the treatment of swollen gums. Our specialists will help you maintain your oral health. We have convenient locations to serve you. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Washington DC, Woodbridge VA, Arlington VA, Lorton VA, Manassas VA, Springfield VA, Alexandria VA, and Silver Spring MD.