WHEN you brush or floss, do you notice any bleeding, tenderness, redness, or inflammation in your gums?

Inflamed gums could signal an underlying condition that your dentist should check, and the following are just a few possible causes. Paying as much attention to your gums as you do to your teeth is a vital part of maintaining your overall oral health. Be on the lookout for these symptoms.

CAUSE 1: GUM DISEASE

Inflamed gums are one of the first signs of gum disease. Other signs and symptoms include teeth that appear longer because the gums have receded, pockets formed between teeth, changes in how the teeth fit together, persistent bad breath, and a constant bad taste in the mouth. Do you have any of these symptoms? You may have a form of gum disease, such as gingivitis, periodontitis or advanced periodontitis.

Gum disease starts when plaque on the teeth isn’t removed by daily brushing and flossing. The plaque infects the gums, teeth and supporting bone tissue. If this condition is left untreated, you could wind up with pockets around the teeth, teeth may appear to be loose and a gum specialist may need to be seen to examine your condition.

CAUSE 2: TOOTH ABSCESS

If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the dentist, you may have a cavity or some other dental issue of which you’re not aware. Sometimes, bacteria from a cavity can reach your teeth and cause an infection and a painful swelling called an abscess. You should see your dentist as soon as you notice swelling around a tooth or signs of an abscess. If it’s left untreated, ultimately it may require a root canal to be performed or tooth removal.

CAUSE 3: PREGNANCY

In addition to the usual prenatal care that women receive during the nine months of pregnancy, staying on top of dental visits is important. As many as 50 to 70 per cent of pregnant women develop pregnancy gingivitis.

During pregnancy, you may experience swollen gums and tenderness, which are caused by hormonal changes. One common sign is gums that bleed when you brush or floss. You may even experience a red, inflammed raised area on the gum tissue surface — called pregnancy tumors — which typically go away on their own after pregnancy.

KEEP THE SWELLING DOWN

A combination of at-home care and regular dental check-ups is your best bet for fighting cavities, gum disease and swelling of the gum tissue. These are just a few helpful tips to prevent gum inflammation.

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Floss daily.

• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

• Avoid sugary foods.

• Schedule regular dentist visits, every six months, for routine cleanings.

If you have any of these symptoms, be sure to schedule a visit with your dentist to find the true cause. Getting the proper treatment, along with follow-up care in the dentist’s office and at home, will prevent further damage. Your teeth and your smile will thank you.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 630-4710. Like their Facebook page, Dental Place Cosmetix Spa, for an opportunity to take advantage of weekly specials.