Spit blood in sink
Spit blood in sink

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Causes of swollen gums

While healthy gums are pink and firm, swollen gums tend to be red and puffy. They are often one of the early symptoms of gum disease, so it’s important to speak to a dentist as soon as possible because there could be worse to come.

The most common cause of swollen gums (also called inflamed gums) is plaque bacteria that constantly builds up on, around and in between your teeth. It tends to develop when food particles containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches) are left to linger in the mouth. 

Unless the plaque bacteria is removed (usually by brushing), it can cause swollen gums around the tooth. This inflammation may eventually spread to the gum socket that holds the tooth and lead to more serious problems like periodontitis.

There are other causes of swollen gums too, though, so it’s important to talk to your dentist if you have any concerns.

Swollen gums

Treating swollen gums

As well as speaking to your dentist and attending regular check-ups, there are several things you can do to remove plaque bacteria:

  1. Brush with Corsodyl Toothpaste, which is 4x more effective* than a regular toothpaste at removing the build-up of plaque along the gum line (the area where the gum meets the tooth), helping to keep gums healthy and teeth strong.
  2. Use an electric or manual toothbrush with soft round bristles and a small head, paying careful attention to the space where the gums and teeth meet.
  3. Floss or use interdental brushes, which can help remove plaque bacteria from difficult to reach areas, like in between your teeth.
  4. Use a mouthwash such as Corsodyl Treatment Mouthwash for the treatment and prevention of gum disease.

*Removes more plaque than a regular toothpaste after a professional clean and twice daily brushing. Excludes Corsodyl Toothpaste Whitening variant.