Gum sensitivity experienced by an individual usually leads to swollen gums when not properly addressed. What are the characteristics of swollen gums? The gums that experiences swelling is a result of excessive fluid retention in the gum tissues which is accompanied by extreme sensitivity, redness and sometimes bleeding. These symptoms are worsened when food particles come into contact with the gums while chewing as it causes abrasion of the overly sensitive soft tissues. Smoking tobacco can also aggravate cases of swollen gums because of the chemicals contained in the cigarette like nicotine.
Even tooth brushing may cause abrasions on swollen gums as the bristles may not be soft enough and thus add additional stress on the gums. When experiencing discomfort with swelling gums, a person may feel throbbing, stabbing, sharp and intense pain depending on the current stage the gum disease is at. It is therefore advised to visit the dentist immediately and seek for treatment than just performing self-medication to treat swollen gums. The reason for this is that the swelling may be caused by an underlying sickness that should be addressed as soon as possible.
What are the possible ailments that cause gum swelling? Malnutrition is one sighted reason in conjunction with vitamin deficiencies. The lack of vitamins in the body like vitamin c, folic acid and iron is associated with scurvy and anemia. These illnesses show its symptoms through the mouth and gums, thus the swollen gums and sensitivity. Other rare disorders like HIV/AIDS that attack the body’s immune system may also manifest symptoms through the mouth, gum tissues and surrounding areas.
The process of how to treat swollen gums may be through treating the underlying disease that has been causing it. Like what was mentioned in the previous paragraph, malnutrition and vitamin deficiency causes are easily addressed by intake of proper diet along with supplements, fruits and vegetables. For HIV/AIDS cases however, there are still no developments found regarding the complete cure for this disease.
Whatever stage the condition may be at, make sure that you immediately seek the advice of a doctor. Any ailment that is not attended at the soonest possible time may lead to more serious cases and may eventually cost you more time and money for treatment. After the doctor prescribed the medications you need, you can help in making the healing process faster by eating healthy and taking in more fruits and vegetables.