Symptom · Moderate urgency · 4/10

Swollen Gums

Gum inflammation causing red, puffy, or bleeding gums, often a sign of gingivitis, periodontitis, or infection.

Fig. 1 — Urgency

4/10

Moderate urgency

RX · SEE A DENTISTWITHIN 1–2 WEEKS

Note — Timing

When to See a Dentist

Within 1-2 weeks if mild. Within 48 hours if severe swelling, pain, or signs of infection.

Table 1 — Possible causes

Possible Causes of Swollen Gums

  1. 01Gingivitis (early gum disease)
  2. 02Periodontitis (advanced gum disease)
  3. 03Food trapped between teeth
  4. 04Tooth infection
  5. 05Hormonal changes
  6. 06Vitamin deficiencies

Table 2 — Home remedies & self-care

Home Remedies & Self-Care

These may help manage symptoms temporarily while waiting for professional care.

  • 01Improve brushing and flossing technique
  • 02Salt water rinse twice daily
  • 03Antibacterial mouthwash
  • 04Apply cold compress
  • 05Stay hydrated

IMPORTANT

Home remedies are not a substitute for professional dental care. They may provide temporary relief but won't treat the underlying cause.

Table 3 — Common treatments

Common Treatments for Swollen Gums

These dental procedures are commonly used to treat swollen gums.

ProcedureDurationCost
Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) →1–2 h$200–$800
Gum Graft →1–2 h$600–$3,000

Table 4 — Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Swollen Gums

What causes swollen gums?

Swollen Gums can be caused by: gingivitis (early gum disease), periodontitis (advanced gum disease), food trapped between teeth, tooth infection, hormonal changes, vitamin deficiencies. A dental professional can determine the exact cause through examination.

Is swollen gums serious?

Swollen Gums should be evaluated by a dentist, though it may not be an emergency. Within 1-2 weeks if mild. Within 48 hours if severe swelling, pain, or signs of infection.

Can I treat swollen gums at home?

Some home remedies may provide temporary relief for swollen gums, including: improve brushing and flossing technique, salt water rinse twice daily, antibacterial mouthwash. However, home care is not a substitute for professional treatment.

Medical disclaimer

The information provided on Urgent Dental Helper is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental or medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.