Gums - swollen

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Tooth anatomy

Swollen gums

Overview

Treatment

Gums - swollen

Definition:

Swollen gums are abnormally enlarged, bulging, or protruding.

Alternative Names:

Swollen gums; Gingival swelling

Considerations:

Gum swelling is quite common and may involve one or many papillae (the triangular-shaped bits of gum between adjacent teeth).

Occasionally, the gums swell significantly, obscuring the teeth altogether.

Common Causes:

Infection by a virus or fungus
Gingivitis
Poorly fitting dentures
Sensitivity to toothpaste or mouthwash
Side effect of a drug such as Dilantin or phenobarbital
Malnutrition
Scurvy (Vitamin C deficiency)
Pregnancy (1st or 2nd trimester)

Review Date: 8/12/2005
Reviewed By: Johanna Jacobs, D.D.S., General and Cosmetic Dentistry, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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