Why Are My Gums Red And Swollen?

It has happened to many of us. We look in the mirror, noticed that are gums are sore and discolored. Invariably, we stretch our mouths open, peer into the mirror, twist this way and that for a better look. We inevitably wonder, "Why are my gums red and swollen?" We are right to wonder that, because this could point to some serious problems.

Now, there are some easy answers to this question. You might have just brushed your teeth too hard or too long. Your toothpaste might be too abrasive. Your tooth brush itself might have rough, harsh bristles. You may have gone at flossing a little too aggressively. After all, there is such a thing as sensitive gums.

More often than you might think, however, the answer to this question is a bit more serious. Quite frequently, gingivitis is the reason your gums are red and swollen. Most of us have heard about gingivitis, through our dentists and of course through television. Still, many people do not know what it is.

Simply put, gingivitis is an inflammation of your gum tissue. It affects the soft gum tissue supporting and surrounding your teeth. If you have plaque buildup, you can get gingivitis. Microbes grow in the plaque. The microbes cause gingivitis, thus making it a bacterial infection. It is incredibly common, since we do have so much bacteria in our mouths.

Another sign of gingivitis is bleeding gums. That is why it is so easy for people to pass it off as a problem caused by brushing too hard. While that can be the case in some instances, you should never take sore, red, and bleeding gums lightly. It is imperative that you see your dentist as soon as possible.

The good news is that you can reverse the effects of this type of gum disease. Your dentist will have many treatment options and methods. Brushing and flossing regularly will also help. That can, in fact, be a preventative measure.

Next: Read More about how to stop gum disease and prevent it from coming back again!

Additional Resources:

What You Should Know About Gum Disease  - The book that could start a revolution in dental care.

Oral Irrigator - The Best Oral Irrigator On The Market

Ozone Generator - Ozonate water for a variety of purposes.  Ozone has been used to combat periodontal disease as well as a number of other very useful purposes.

How to Stop Gum Disease - Free Report 

Sinus Irrigator - The best sinus irrigator around