How to Reduce Gum Swelling (6 Tips For Relief)
Puffy, tender, bleeding gums when you brush or floss? You’re not alone. Swollen gums are all too common. But the good news is you can learn how to reduce gum swelling at home. We’ll share proven strategies below, including LIVFRESH Gum Protect+ Toothpaste - a formula that reduces gum bleeding and inflammation 400% better than an ADA-approved toothpaste.
Key Takeaways
- Plaque buildup along the gum line triggers the body’s inflammatory response, which may be the cause of swelling.
- The ADA says poor brushing and flossing are the leading cause of early-stage gum disease.
- Most cases of moderate gum swelling get better within 2-4 weeks of making changes to oral care habits.
- LIVFRESH Gum Protect+ reduces gum swelling and bleeding 400% better than a leading ADA-approved brand.
Why Are My Gums Swollen?
First, understand that swollen gums are completely normal. Well, not exactly…but there’s a rational explanation for why your gums are swollen. This is your body’s reaction to bacteria building up along and beneath the gum line. AKA plaque.
Plaque sits undisturbed in those little nooks and crannies, which can irritate gum tissue and trigger swelling, tenderness, and bleeding anytime you agitate said tissue (which happens when you brush or floss). That’s why you see pink in the sink when you spit.
This is likely the earliest stage of gum disease that you’re dealing with - gingivitis. Don’t freak out. Gingivitis is still reversible. It’s the most advanced stage of gum disease that can be a real cause for concern.
How to Reduce Gum Swelling Fast: 6 Tips to Ease Swollen Gums at Home
Learning how to reduce gum swelling is as simple as upgrading your oral care habits and making a few little lifestyle changes. First things first, you need LIVFRESH Gum Protect+ Toothpaste.
1. Incorporate LIVFRESH Gum Protect+ Toothpaste
This one-of-a-kind toothpaste brings together Stannous Fluoride with another ingredient protected by 40 patents and backed by 40 clinical studies - Activated Edathamil. Together, the formula dissolves plaque on contact and leaves behind a negative surface charge so new plaque has a harder time sticking to teeth.
We put this toothpaste to the test and found it was capable of helping treat gingivitis, reducing gum bleeding and inflammation 400% better than an ADA-approved toothpaste. Even dentists have begun endorsing LIVFRESH as the best toothpaste for bleeding gums.
2. Improve Your Brushing and Flossing Habits
LIVFRESH only works if you use it twice a day, every day, for a full two minutes per brushing. We recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush so you don’t irritate your already sensitive, inflamed gums. A hard-bristled toothbrush will only make matters worse. Use gentle, short strokes angled toward the gum line (around 45 degrees).
Don’t forget to floss, either. That bleeding should not deter you. It’s not going to get better until you address the root cause of swollen gums, which goes back to plaque hiding under the gumline and between teeth.
3. Regular Rinses With a Good Mouthwash
Even the best brushing and flossing routine won’t get every bit of plaque. There are just too many places for it to hide, and you can’t reach all of them.
That’s why it’s worth incorporating a mouthwash for bleeding gums. LIVFRESH’s plaque removal mouthwash can work into the nooks and crannies to stop plaque and prevent it from returning, which may give your gums a chance to recover.
Consistency is everything. Twice a day, 30-60 seconds, every day. Give it at least four weeks, and you’ll see why you should have been doing this all along.
4. Make Sure You’re Drinking Enough Water
Dehydration creates the ideal conditions for plaque to thrive, which can keep the gum swelling going. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against bacterial buildup, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
5. Try to Limit Crunchy, Sugary Foods
Hard, crunchy foods can irritate already-swollen gums. Meanwhile, sugary, starchy foods leave behind the fuel that plaque needs to wreak havoc. Try to limit both types of foods if you can. Stick to softer foods while your gums recover. Rinse well with water after eating.
6. Manage Discomfort Until Gums Improve
One of the final tips we want to share regarding how to reduce gum swelling is more about managing the discomfort. A warm saltwater rinse can ease tenderness while your gums heal. You can also try a cold or warm compress against the cheek to temporarily ease swelling.
When Will My Swollen Gums Get Better?
Most people see a noticeable improvement in gum health within 2-4 weeks of making legitimate changes to their oral hygiene. You’ll soon start noticing less pink in the sink, and your gums won’t be as tender when you brush/floss.
Is it Worth Looking Into Professional Treatment For Gum Swelling?
You should book a consultation with your dentist if things don’t get better within a month of making changes to your at-home care. Other signs that the issue is more serious include:
- Persistent bleeding
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
Don’t wait for your next checkup. Gum recession can be permanent. Even the toothpaste for receding gums may not be enough to stop the source of the ailment.
Preventing Swollen Gums Going Forward
It’s as simple as staying consistent with your new oral care regimen once your gums are no longer swollen. That means brushing and rinsing twice a day, and flossing every day. Upgrade your ritual with LIVFRESH today and put swollen gums in the past for good.
Frequently asked questions
What triggers gum swelling?
It’s usually plaque buildup along the gum line. Hormonal changes, medications, and vitamin deficiencies can also be to blame.
Can inflamed gums go back to normal?
Yes, as long as you act fast. Gingivitis (early stage gum disease) is reversible, but the more advanced stage can cause permanent gum recession.
Should I brush an inflamed gum?
You should not actually brush your gums, ever. You should focus on angling the bristles such that they get right up to and ideally, even beneath, the gum line. Use the right technique rather than scrubbing with raw power.
Will my swollen gums get better on their own?
No, you have to follow best practices regarding how to reduce gum swelling. That’s as simple as addressing the root cause (plaque buildup).
When are swollen gums a real cause for concern?
See a dentist if swelling lasts more than 3-4 weeks after making dramatic changes to your regimen. Or, if your gums are bleeding heavily or receding.
What’s the best way to reduce gum swelling?
Gentle brushing, daily flossing, and better oral care products like those LIVFRESH has formulated.
Related Resources
Parodontax vs Crest Gum Detoxify | Best Remineralizing Toothpaste
References
- American Dental Association. "Gum Disease." MouthHealthy.org. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/gum-disease
- American Dental Association. "Home Oral Care." ADA.org. https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/home-care
- LIVFRESH Gum Protect+ Clinical Study. Journal of Periodontology, 2020. Randomized, double-blind, UC Irvine Beckman Laser Institute.
