Causes of swollen gums with pus and home remedies

Swollen gums with pus is a common condition caused by gum or tooth infections and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. In the article below, The East Rose Dental will share detailed information about the causes, symptoms, and effective home treatment methods to help improve the issue of swollen gums with pus.

What is swollen infected gums with pus?

Swollen infected gums with pus is a serious infection that occurs in the gum tissue or the root of the tooth. This condition is usually caused by bacteria, leading to the formation of pus in the inflamed area. It can be classified into two types as follows:

• Acute gum inflammation: Causes prolonged or short-term pain, depending on the oral health condition. The pain may temporarily decrease, but failure to treat it promptly can lead to tooth loss.
• Chronic gum inflammation: This is a prolonged inflammatory condition that causes continuous and uncomfortable pain. The pain often spreads to neighboring teeth, making it difficult for patients to pinpoint the exact location of the inflammation.

Main causes leading to swollen gums with pus

Swollen gums with pus is considered a highly alarming condition, often stemming from poorly controlled oral health issues. Understanding the causes helps us prevent and treat effectively. Below are the common causes leading to this issue:

• Gum Infection: Caused by bacteria accumulating along the gum line, leading to inflammation and infection.
• Tooth Decay: Untreated cavities can spread and cause infection in the tooth root.
• Periodontitis: Inflammation of the gums and surrounding bone, often leading to infection and pus formation.
• Tooth trauma: Injury or cracks in teeth create opportunities for bacteria to enter and cause infection.
• Weakened immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to oral infections.
• Poor oral hygiene habits: Infrequent brushing and lack of dental flossing lead to plaque buildup and bacterial infection.

Common symptoms when having swollen gums with pus

Early recognition of symptoms of swollen gums with pus is crucial to prevent serious complications. When noticing unusual signs, it's important to see a dentist promptly for diagnosis and treatment. Below are common symptoms compiled by The East Rose Dental Clinic:

• Severe pain: The pain can become severe and prolonged, radiating to the jaw and ears, causing constant discomfort. Pain may intensify when chewing or touching the inflamed area.
• Swelling: The gum area around the affected tooth is swollen and visibly noticeable. Swelling can spread to surrounding areas, affecting facial appearance.
• Pus formation: White or yellow pus appears in the inflamed area, which may discharge when pressed or spontaneously. The presence of pus is a sign of a serious infection that requires immediate treatment.
• Bad breath: Infection causes unpleasant odor in the mouth that cannot be eliminated by brushing or mouthwash. Bad breath often accompanies a bitter taste in the mouth caused by pus.
• Fever: Severe infection can cause fever and overall body fatigue. Fever is a sign that the body is reacting to infection and needs special attention.
• Red and soft gums: The gum area around the affected tooth becomes red, soft, and sensitive to touch. Gums may bleed easily when brushing or flossing.

Current treatment methods for swollen gums with pus

If you notice symptoms of swollen gums with pus, timely treatment is necessary to avoid serious complications. Home remedies can help temporarily alleviate symptoms, but it's crucial to seek professional dental care from a dentist to address the issue comprehensively.

Temporary home treatment for swollen gums with pus
Home remedies typically only alleviate pain or reduce more severe inflammation. Below is a specific guide on how to quickly reduce acute inflammation:

• Warm saltwater rinse: Saltwater has antibacterial properties that clean and reduce inflammation in the infected area. Rinse 2-3 times daily to reduce swelling and pain.
• Cold Compress: Use a cold compress applied to the swollen area near the affected tooth to reduce swelling and pain. Apply for 15-20 minutes each time, and repeat several times a day.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can temporarily alleviate pain and swelling. However, follow dosage instructions and avoid overuse.
• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Gently brush your teeth and use dental floss to remove plaque, avoiding irritation to the inflamed gum area.

Treatment plan for swollen gums at the dental clinic

Do not underestimate the issue of swollen gums with pus, as it can lead to more serious problems. When you visit the dental clinic, you will be treated using the following methods:

• Antibiotics: The dentist will prescribe antibiotics to eliminate infection-causing bacteria and prevent further spread.
• Incision and drainage: This procedure helps remove pus and reduce pressure in the inflamed area, improving pain and swelling symptoms.
• Root canal treatment: If the infection has reached the tooth pulp, the dentist will perform a root canal to clean the infection from inside the tooth and preserve the tooth.
• Tooth extraction: In severe cases of infection or when the tooth cannot be saved, the dentist may recommend tooth extraction to eliminate the source of infection and prevent further spread.

Swollen gums with pus is a serious infection that requires timely detection and treatment. Understanding its causes and symptoms helps you prevent and effectively treat the condition. We hope through this article, The East Rose Dental Clinic has provided you with new insights to effectively protect your oral health and minimize risks associated with untreated conditions.

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