Swollen gums got you down? Swollen gums are pretty common, and they often occur due to early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. Since gingivitis crops up when bacteria and food particles build up and turn into plaque on your teeth, practicing some oral hygiene basics can help solve the problem and prevent gum irritation.
- Brush & Floss
- Use a Saltwater Rinse
- Drink Water, Not Alcohol
This first solution is an easy one! Brush your teeth twice a day for a full two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day. Keep your brushing gentle and use a soft-bristled toothbrush so you don’t end up irritating your gums even more. If traditional floss just isn’t cutting it for you, try a water flosser to get into those tight spaces between your teeth and under your gumline. Water flossing will also help stimulate bloodflow in your gums.
You may already use a saltwater rinse when you have a sore throat, but this simple mix can also help treat swollen gums. Mix at least one teaspoon of salt into eight ounces of warm water and then swish the liquid around your mouth for about 30 seconds. Feel free to repeat this multiple times a day, but remember never to swallow the mixture!
If you have swollen gums, drink plenty of water so you can stay hydrated and help stimulate more saliva production in your mouth. Why is saliva important? Because it’ll actually help rinse away bacteria from your teeth and gums and keep your mouth clean. While you should definitely be drinking water, one thing you should avoid drinking is alcohol. Alcohol is considered an irritant that may just end up hurting your gums more.
Schedule a Checkup at Corvallis Dental Group
While we hope that these home remedies can help you decrease swelling in your gums, we also encourage you to consult with our expert team so we can make sure your swollen gums aren’t indicative of a bigger concern. Our Corvallis Dental Group team is here to help you achieve your healthiest smile! Contact us today to schedule your next visit.
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