Swollen gums look enlarged, puffy or bulging. MedlinePlus says gum swelling is common and may involve one or many of the small triangle-shaped areas of gum between teeth (papillae). Occasionally the gums swell enough to block the teeth completely. Here is what can cause it and how to respond.
Common causes
MedlinePlus lists:
- inflamed gums (gingivitis), often from plaque. See signs of gum disease.
- food debris lodged under the gums
- infection by a virus or fungus
- poorly fitting dentures or appliances
- pregnancy. See dental care during pregnancy.
- sensitivity to toothpaste or mouthwash
- side effects of a medicine
- malnutrition or scurvy (vitamin C deficiency)
Swelling with a pimple-like bump, pain or a bad taste can mean infection. See tooth abscess signs.
Home care
MedlinePlus suggests:
- Eat a well-balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, and avoid sugary foods and drinks. See diet and teeth.
- Avoid popcorn, chips and similar foods that can lodge under the gums.
- Avoid irritants such as mouthwashes, alcohol and tobacco.
- If a dental product seems to be the trigger, switch toothpaste brands and stop using mouthwash.
- Brush and floss regularly. See flossing and interdental cleaning.
- If you suspect a medicine, talk to your provider. Never stop a medicine on your own.
MedlinePlus’s bleeding-gums guidance adds brushing gently with a soft-bristle brush, which helps if gums are tender.
See a dentist regularly
MedlinePlus recommends seeing a dentist or periodontist at least every 6 months. See how often to see the dentist.
When to contact a provider
MedlinePlus says to contact your provider if gum changes last longer than 2 weeks.
What to expect at the visit
Your dentist will examine your mouth, teeth and gums. MedlinePlus says they may ask:
- Do your gums bleed? How long has the swelling lasted, and has it changed?
- How often do you brush, and with what kind of brush? What other products do you use?
- When was your last professional cleaning?
- Any changes in diet, vitamins or medicines?
- Have you recently changed toothpaste or mouthwash?
- Any other symptoms, such as bad breath, sore throat or pain?
Blood tests such as a complete blood count may be done. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to care for your teeth and gums.
Frequently asked questions
Can toothpaste cause swollen gums?
MedlinePlus lists sensitivity to toothpaste or mouthwash as a cause. Switching products may help.
How long is too long for swollen gums?
MedlinePlus says contact your provider if changes last more than 2 weeks.
Sources
By the Dentist Review Editorial Team.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to a licensed dentist about your own situation. See our disclaimer.
Featured image: “Dental floss 2” by Tiia Monto, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized and compressed for the web.
Our guides are written and reviewed by the Dentist Review editorial team. We research each topic using public, authoritative sources such as the CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH/NIDCR), the American Dental Association (ADA) and CMS, and we update guides when guidance changes. Guides are for general information only and are not dental or medical advice; please read our disclaimer and learn more about us.