Emergency Dentist London

Swollen Gums Treatment in Westminster, London

Swollen gums can be painful and alarming, often indicating an underlying infection, inflammation, or dental condition that requires professional attention.

Dealing with swollen or painful gums can be worrying, as it usually signals a dental issue, inflammation, or infection that needs expert care. Prompt attention is key, regardless of whether the swelling is subtle and localised or more extensive. Here at Millbank Dental Care in Westminster, London, our friendly team offers emergency appointments to identify the root cause, treat any infection, and bring back your comfort and healthy smile.

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Common Causes

Dental abscess

A bacterial infection at the root of a tooth or in the gum can cause significant swelling, pain, and pus formation.

Food impaction

Food trapped between teeth or under the gum line can cause localised irritation and swelling.

Poorly fitted dental appliances

Dentures, crowns, or braces that rub or press on the gums can cause inflammation and swelling.

Hormonal changes

Pregnancy, menstruation, and puberty can increase blood flow to the gums, making them more prone to swelling.

Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)

Infection and inflammation of the gums caused by plaque build-up are among the most common causes of gum swelling.

Pericoronitis

Swelling of the gum tissue around a partially erupted tooth, most commonly affecting wisdom teeth.

Allergic reactions

Sensitivity to certain toothpastes, mouthwashes, or dental materials can occasionally cause gum swelling.

Symptoms to Watch For

Visibly swollen, red, or puffy gum tissue
Facial swelling on the side of the affected area
Fever or feeling generally unwell
Pain or tenderness when touching the swollen area or when eating
A foul taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath
Pus discharging from the gum near the affected area
Bleeding from the affected gum, particularly during brushing
Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing if swelling is severe
A throbbing or constant ache in the jaw

Dental Treatment Options

Drainage of abscess - If a dental abscess is causing the swelling, the abscess may need to be drained to release the trapped pus and relieve pressure. This is followed by thorough cleaning and appropriate follow-up treatment.
Antibiotics - For bacterial infections causing significant swelling, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection. Antibiotics are typically used alongside other treatments rather than as a standalone remedy.
Professional cleaning - If gum disease is the cause, a thorough scale and polish to remove plaque and tartar allows the gums to heal and reduces swelling.
Root canal treatment - If the swelling is caused by an infected tooth pulp, root canal treatment can remove the source of infection and save the tooth.
Tooth extraction - In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary to eliminate the source of infection and allow healing.
Adjustment of dental appliances - If poorly fitting dentures or braces are the cause of the swelling, adjustments can be made to relieve pressure and irritation on the gum tissue.

Prevention Tips

Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine — brush twice daily and clean between teeth to prevent plaque build-up and gum disease.
Do not ignore early signs of gum disease such as bleeding or tenderness — early treatment can prevent progression to more serious conditions.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water if you notice mild gum irritation — this can help soothe inflammation temporarily until you can see a dentist.
Attend regular dental check-ups at The DNA Henley Clinic so that potential problems can be detected and addressed early.
If you wear dentures, ensure they are checked regularly for fit and comfort.
Avoid smoking, which impairs gum health and slows healing after treatment.