White Bump on Gums: not Painful, Spots, Sore, Treat, Pictures

Bumps that form on your gums are mild condition for us, noncancerous growths in our mouth can be caused by an irritation and they are relatively normal. In case they get be more serious conditions, white bumps on gums or lumps may indicate to be cancerous. Therefore you may have to visit your doctor who may remove by surgery.

A white bump on gums, called a gumboil or parulis, can be found around the teeth by the lips or cheeks, along with the roof of one’s mouth. This kind infection of the gum can have some inflammation around the bump and there may be an abscess. These feeling is caused by a tooth that had died due to decay or infection, called a non-vital tooth.
When the nerve tissue dies, the tissue causes a response where white blood cells enter the area to prevent an infection. Also, it forms when there is pressure from an abscess in the bone and the toxicity of the dead nerve tissue. The bump is filled with pus at the base of the tooth which breaks through the skin to form the bump or boil.
When the bump pops or releases the pus, there can be a salty or bitter taste. The gum boil may not necessarily be painful, but always does require medical attention. If there is any pain, the person usually makes an immediate appointment with their dentist.

I have a bump on my gums what could it be?

A gum pimple can be a sign of infection or abscess in either the bone or gum tissue.  Although most gum pimples are not painful they need to be evaluated by a dentist. Sometimes when teeth have an infection in the nerve or surrounding bone or gum tissue, you will see a reaction which occurs with a white bump on gums.
These little pimples on your gum that come and go but never go away completely can indicate a tooth abscess or gum infection. Not all teeth that are abscessed or infected get a drainage pimple.  Infection causes swelling that can result in pain because swelling creates pressure on the inside of your upper or lower jaw bone.
When you get a sinus tract drainage or fistula, it allows for drainage of the infected spot and relieves the swelling. The good news is, because the swelling is relieved through the pimple or drainage tract, you have no pain. The bad news, you still have infection somewhere in or near your tooth.

What if it doesn’t hurt?

The white lump on gums that drains is an indication that there is infection.  Even though it doesn’t hurt, you should get it checked out soon. It is not healthy for you to have chronic infection anywhere in your body.  It can eventually cause a bad toothache or make you sick.

What Causes White Bumps on Gums

White bumps, spots or swelling can be an indicator of severe condition of the gums. It usually occurs due to increased bacterial infection and abscess forming lumps on the gums.
The presence of a lump, or mass, on the gums can be indicative of numerous different problems. Such a fact is contrary to popular beliefs that it could be due to oral cancers or tumors. It could also occur because of injury trauma, canker sores or changes in the hormones due to pregnancy.
The most common cause of these white bumps is contraction of diseases such as Gingivitis and periodontal disease which is a more serious form of gingivitis. However other causing conditions include:
Gum Disease
They are mainly caused by poor dental hygiene that accumulates with inconsistencies in brushing the teeth and flossing. Also it further causes bacterial infection to accumulate which will eventually destroy the gums by entering the blood. However, inflammation can also cause white bumps on the gums. Symptoms of gum problems may include swelling and pain, loosening of teeth, foul breath and sensitive gums.
Mouth ulcers
For mouth ulcers, they are not only small white bumps but also yellowish spots. A single white bump on gums is a sign of ulcers and multiple bumps indicate complex sores. High intake of acidic food is one of the reasons for canker sores making it difficult to eat or chew. Therefore it is important while treating them one must stay away from hard food items and stick to soft or liquid foods.
After effect of braces
Some people experience white bumps after putting their braces on. It is possible that the braces are stopping the right way of cleaning the teeth allowing bacteria to form on the gums. For people having braces, water picks are quiet helpful in cleaning.
Infection
A tooth infections is the most common reason that lead to a small white bump, such as an infection in the tooth due to trauma, an infection by a decayed tooth and the dental chronic abscess. These infections can get your body to drain them out for protecting the area.
Canker Sores
These ulcers usually appear inside your mouth on tongue, gums and cheeks and they can be painful. In some case, they may develop a white coat on top of them. Canker sores can be due to a few of things, such as bad diet, food allergy, stress and even menstruation.
Gum abscess and white bumps
The white bump on gums may occur with the formation of pus sometimes also known as abscess. This can also destroy the bone underneath the affected area by creating a hole. This worsen the condition and that is why should be treated with utmost medical care at the right time.  Also at times it is not felt or goes unnoticed as it doesn’t hurt but later result to severe throbbing and sensitivity as well as inflammation.
The swelling mostly occur during the night time or overnight. Later, one might detect white spots on the gum that might hurt if touched with force. You may also face difficulty in opening the mouth due to inflammation and swelling. The accumulation of pus can also affect the taste buds.

White Bump on Gums no Pain meaning

There is a flat bone known as torus, which is a benign bony growth that is found on the tongue side of the lower jaw, or even on the hard palate. These small white bump on gums probably got the name from their bulbous shape and the fact that they are usually made of strong, solid bone.
Therefore, torus are generally not a very big problem, except when the removable prosthesis like the partial dentures or even complete dentures must be fully fitted.
Oral cancers are usually always soft tissue lesions, in other words they are very soft, not very hard bumps. Cancer is rarely hard or painful in presentation like the mandibular Tori. Cancer is not normally diagnosed feel alone, however, due to the fact that there is nothing particularly unique or the characteristic of the consistency or even the texture of cancer.
The painless lumps on gums start as small hard bumps, as times goes by, with no medication and treatment. This lead to the sores growing big, as you keep brushing your mouth, the sores may rupture and cause you to feel pain. The rupture may also be as a result of the teeth grinding the gums or the reaction between hard foods such as fries.

White Bump on Gums below Teeth

Dental cysts can form at the tip of the roots of dead teeth. They can also form around the crowns of buried teeth. Most bumps below teeth form because the teeth they are associated with have died from infection or trauma. Others form because of a mistake in the way the teeth have developed.
In rare cases, white bump on gums below teeth are part of a genetic syndrome that has other symptoms. Your dentist or oral surgeon will explain to you more about the cause of your cyst. Any teeth can develop lump on gum from dental cysts. Mostly people will only have one at a time, but some people are more susceptible to developing them either because of the condition of their teeth or because they have an inherited condition that has dental cysts as part of its features.

White Bump on Gums above Tooth

Many at times, the gums may bleed if you brush the teeth and gums very hard, make use of a hard-bristled toothbrush, or the snap dental floss hard against the gums. Always be gentle with the teeth, use a very soft-bristled toothbrush as well as floss very carefully to assist to prevent bump on gums.
Smoking as well as chewing tobacco increases the risk for gum disease which can be seen with a hard white bump on gums above tooth. Smokers have a very higher chance of experiencing gum disease throughout their mouths than the non-smokers.
However, you may not experience the symptoms of bleeding or a lump on the gums due to the normal bleeding immune response that is affected by tobacco use.
Chewing of the tobacco or use of the snuff can also result in gums recession in the area of the mouth where the tobacco is normally inserted. Constant irritation brought about by the tobacco products increases the risk of oral cancer.

Causes of Hard Bumps on Gums

In many cases, the structure and appearance of bumps on gums is dependent on what the cause them to occur. The color of the lumps would vary from reddish, grayish all the way to whitish. The size on the other hand would be small 0.5mm to big one of around 2mm. the other aspect of the lump would be the texture, some would be tough when touch with the fingers whereas other may appear tender and soft when felt.
Severally, a hard white lump on gum may be as a result of sexually transmitted infection, the more common culprit of this would either be chlamydia, Gonorrhoea or HIV/AIDS. When these are the cause, you should expect other symptoms such as;

  • Cracking of the mouth lining
  • Peeling of the mucus membrane
  • Dry and cracked lips
  • You should also expect loss of test

It is important to visit your health care provider for early diagnosis and treatment. This will be helpful in preventing future infection and making sure you do not transmit the infection to other persons.

White Bump on Gums of a Baby

When your child has bumps or small sore on the gum, this could be a source of pain and discomfort. When this happens, you need to visit a pediatrician as soon as possible. Most of the infection for children happen from the mouth. Your child may be having an oral thrush or cankers sores or just an injury from playing with sharp objects.
When you find the actual cause of the white bump on gums in your baby’s mouth is the first step in trying to figure out the best way to get rid of the lumps. For small children below 8 years, you could try waxing the gum with coconut oil or raw honey to help dry the sores and alleviates the pain by reducing the contact between them and the teeth.

White Bumps on Gums Home Remedy

It is important to note that the best way of getting rid of the bumps is treating the underlying cause of the bumps in the first place. White bump on gums is not an infection on its own. Lumps on gums are a symptom of an underlying medical or health complication. You can easily reduce the pain and speed up the healing process by following same of the simple home remedies below.
However, the remedies can sometimes only help reduce the pain, irritation and help dry the ruptured sore. The remedies do not treat the cause of the lumps, you need to seek the help of a dentist or a general health practitioner as soon as you can.
Aloe Vera rinse
Aloe Vera has a lot of anti-inflammatory, anti-itching and lots of antibacterial property important in healing very many skin infection. When used on ruptured sore, aloe Vera can help speed the healing process at the same time reducing bleeding of the gums.
To prepare, simply mix aloe Vera gel in a cup of water, swish the mixture over the sores three times a day after meals to ease the pain and speed the healing process.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile has been used as an herb to heal stomach upsets or induce sleep. Chamomile also help in promoting relaxation. All this is made possible as a result of a chemical compound with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties found the chamomile plant.
When being used on a white bump on gums, chamomile will help reduce the pain cause by the ruptured sores and also help in speeding up the healing and getting rid of the lumps. To prepare;

  • Soak the tea bag in water for 3 minute
  • After soaking place it directly against the sores for 5 minutes
  • Repeat this twice daily for optimal results

Coconut oil
Coconut oil is rich in anti-inflammatories, antimicrobial and generally healthy when eaten. It is the best remedy for getting rid of canker sore causing white bumps on tongue, peeling inside mouth and white bump on gums. All you need to prepare this remedy is a fresh coconut fruit.

  • Dab a moderate amount of coconut oil using a swab onto the sores.
  • An alternative is, you can put a considerate amount of coconut oil in your mouth and leave it for 10 minutes before throwing it out
  • Repeat this twice daily till the peeling and the white bumps on tongue disappear.

Use raw Honey
Honey can be very helpful when treating simple coughing and sore throats. Honey has antibacterial properties and potential anti-inflammatory qualities. Raw organic honey thus makes an excellent soothing coating for sore throats and canker sores in your mouth. If honey is placed on the white bumps on tongue it could help relieve the pain and speed in the healing process all together.
Swish some warm water in your mouth, then apply a thick layer of raw organic honey, you can do this with your fingers or a spoon. Let the coating last for around 10 minutes, before rinsing it out. Do this twice in a day and the result will be optimal.
Use Wax to cap the sores and reduce contact with teeth
For sore that keep rubbing against you teeth or are irritated by the dentures, putting a little wax “capping” over the surface of the sores can really reduce the irritating friction. You need to make the wax thicker enough so that it does not just get around the brace and stuck.

  • Melt down a beeswax and coconut oil and allow them to mix
  • Allow the mixture to cool
  • Gently press dollop over the edge of the teeth to prevent the sores from rubbing

Salt Water & Clove Oil

When a person is dealing with the pain of a bump on gums, salt water rinses may assist the pain disappear. Using clove oil on the spot may also bring a bit of relief. Over the counter medications, such as ibuprofen or even acetaminophen, may also make a big difference. Try using the mouthwashes with a very high alcohol content or a blend of a hydrogen peroxide and water to gargle remember not to swallow the concoctions.

How to Treat Bumps on Gums

A lump on the gums might be very painful, annoying as well as frightening. Here are various ways to assist fight it. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for problems like this. They may also often deliver relief, and once the swelling disappears, the dentist may want to get rid of the tooth or do other procedures so as to ensure the problem is gone.
Medical options
If the problem is too serious, the dentist may perform minor surgery to assist you get over the issue. Scaling as well as root planning of the area are the first options, and if that fails to work, a root canal may be in order. If that also fails to work, tooth extraction or periodontal surgery may be needed.
Cleaning your Teeth and Roots
Keep the teeth clean to prevent white bump on gums by brushing as well as flossing every day. Also, use of mouthwash with a good alcohol content to clean and freshen your mouth after each and every brush. This may also assist to avoid the formation of pockets that gets hold bacteria.
Regular Dental visit
Keep up on this for the cleaning and the x-rays to identify lump on gums, as well as assist to avoid the problems by spotting them before they begin.
When to See a Doctor
If you are much suffering from the pain while chewing, swelling of the jaw, or trouble opening the mouth, you may need to see your dentist for white bum on gums treatment. Other problems that might send you to the dentist include a bad odor from the mouth that won’t go away, occasional bleeding from your gums and fever or any other signs of infection.
Root Canal Treatment
In case the soft tissue on your abscessed tooth has swollen, your dentist may start by draining it first. The tooth will be opened up and the nerve that is sending pain sensations to your brain will be removed. The infected pulp inside the canal will also be cleaned out.
Antibiotics
You may not need antibiotics if your infection isn’t spreading to areas other than your abscessed tooth. It is also important to use antibiotics if your immune system isn’t functioning properly.
More references

  1. Lump on gums: http://mddk.com/lump-on-gums.html
  2. White bumps on tongue and gums: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tongue-pain/Pages/Introduction.aspx
  3. White spots on gums treatment: http://everydayroots.com/canker-sore-remedies
  4. Hard white lump on baby’s gums: http://community.babycenter.com/post/a18326635/help…hard_white_bump_on_babys_gums._not_teething.

Painful Gums Causes: Home Remedy, Sore, Jaw, Relief

Painful, sore, red gums can be a symptom of gum inflammation or, more likely, periodontitis which is inflammation of the attachment fibres of the teeth and supporting bone. This can arise due to a number of different causes, including poor oral hygiene with improper brushing or flossing. Inflammation of the gums may manifest as painful gums, sensitivity, redness and swelling and bleeding gums either after brushing or when irritated.
Gum disease can as well lead to receding gums and even damage to the bones of the jaw. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also increase the sensitivity of the gums, which may in some cases lead to soreness or pain. Painful gums can also arise due to localized sores on the gums, such as abscesses or canker sores.

What Causes Gums to be Painful?

There are a number of different causes of gum pain. Almost everyone experiences painful gums or soreness in their gums at one time or another. Most of the time the pain or soreness is of a temporary nature and is not usually a cause of concern.
Sometimes, when you experience sore or painful gums, it may be due to a problem that you brought upon yourself that could have been avoided. Therefore, your lifestyle, including your hygienic practices, can have a great impact on what goes on inside your mouth.
Here are the possible reasons for sore gums:
Aggressive Brushing or Flossing
Taking good care of teeth involves, brushing them often and properly. When it comes to brushing your teeth however, more often may be better but more aggressively is not. Your teeth can stand frequent brushing but aggressive brushing may result to problems. What overly aggressive brushing can do however, besides causing wear and tear on your toothbrush, is to damage your gums (gingivae).
The same applies to flossing. You may be flossing your teeth with the idea you are cleaning them. That is true, but only to a certain extent. There are two reasons for flossing. One is to prevent decay and gum disease by removing food particles that might accumulate and harbor bacteria. The second reason is to massage your gums. Massaging them helps to keep the blood circulating underneath their surfaces as it should.
Gum Disease
The good news about gum disease is that it is normally both easily treatable and curable. The bad news is that if it is neglected and left untreated, your mouth and gingivae can eventually become a constant source of painful gums and discomfort.
There are two main types of gum disease: mild and severe. The mild type is called gingivitis and the more severe type is called periodontitis. One leads to the other. Inadequate dental hygiene practice can cause gingivitis (an inflammation of the gums or gingival tissues). There are two excellent ways to prevent gingivitis from occurring. One of them is to practice good dental hygiene. The other is to visit your dentist at least once or twice a year who can easily tell if you have gingivitis and can tell you what to do about it.
If you have gingivitis and it is allowed to develop into periodontitis, you will have a problem. The painful gums you are then likely to experience may only be the tip of the iceberg. The difference between gingivitis and periodontitis is that gingivitis consists of inflammation on the surface of the gums while periodontitis goes deeper into the gums and can begin to inflame and infect the roots of the teeth as well as the bones the teeth are attached to.
Injuries or Irritation
If your gums get scratched, you may as well feel a certain amount of pain or tenderness. There are numerous small blood vessels and nerve endings in the gingivae. Because of these nerve endings, any pain due to a paper-thin cut, lesion, or a tiny puncture, may cause painful gums. These small injuries or traumas are generally harmless and the pain will of course eventually subside. The only problem is if the injury gets infected, although this is somewhat uncommon in healthy persons.
Hormonal changes
Painful gums due to changing hormones are normally only experienced by women. Hormones associated with pregnancy will sometimes cause a person’s gums to become swollen and inflamed, which is of course symptomatic of gingivitis. Pregnancy is one instance where gingivitis cannot always be avoided, but should it occur, its symptoms are generally mild and if proper care is given to the teeth, the condition will not advance and usually go away after delivery.
The pregnancy hormones can also cause one or more small nodules to develop on the gums, hence these nodules tend to bleed easily. These nodules are benign and usually go away following delivery.
Ill-Fitted Dentures
Ill-fitting dentures can often be a cause of painful gums. The negative effects dentures on gums, whether ill-fitting or not, most often involve the lower jaw as it is at the bottom of the mouth where it is more difficult to keep dentures in place. Lower dentures can too easily be moved about by the tongue or the action of the jaw or facial muscles, while upper dentures have more of a tendency to stay in place. If the lower dentures do not fit well, the problem will likely occur.
Receding Gums

This is one of the most common causes of painful gums. Whether or not gingival recession will actually cause pain will vary, partly in response to the cause and to the manner in which the gums have receded. Receding gums are often a somewhat natural occurrence that tends to happen mostly in adults and the elderly, regardless of the lifestyle they have been leading.
There are many causes of receding gums that are not natural or related to heredity and are therefore preventable. Chewing tobacco can cause the gums to recede, along with other problems, which will be touched upon later. Bruxism or grinding of the teeth, inadequate brushing, and overaggressive brushing or flossing can be contributors.
Use of tobacco
It doesn’t much matter whether you smoke or chew tobacco. Partaking in either method can cause painful gums, the only difference between the two being the problems caused by smokeless tobacco are generally much worse. Whether you puff or chew, there are cytotoxic chemicals in tobacco and tobacco smoke that are not kind to your gums. Cytotoxic chemicals are chemicals or substances that are destructive to the cells and tissues in your body.
Chewing tobacco can easily cause mouth sores, cracked lips, and bleeding gums, not to mention putting the user at a much higher risk of developing oral cancer. The nicotine in tobacco causes vasoconstriction or narrowing of the blood vessels in the gums. Any deficiency in the blood supply to the gums will do little in the way of keeping them healthy and will have a tendency to cause them to recede, opening the way to various gum problems, the least of which may be painful gums.
Stress
Stress can be a factor of temporomandibular (TMD) disorders. TMD are characterized by jaw joint pain caused by grinding of the teeth or overuse of the jaw muscles. Grinding of your teeth can often contribute to painful gums, but stress can cause gum pain in other ways as well. There appears to be a definite relationship between stress and an increased risk of gum disease, with highly emotional people having the greatest risk of having gum problems.
Teething
Teething is the most common cause of gum pain in infants although it is usually a temporary, one-tooth-at-a-time condition. Some infants and small children experience more pain or soreness than others, some experience little discomfort at all, and almost all of them get through the teething process without problems.
Adults can sometimes experience this type of discomfort if a tooth does not come through the gums as it should, or more likely with the appearance of the wisdom teeth. Impacted teeth are sometimes a cause of gum pain in both adults and adolescents.
Canker Sores
Common culprits behind painful gums are mouth ulcers. These painful sores can develop anywhere inside the mouth, including on the gums, and often have a whitish centre with red edges. You may have one canker sore at a time, making only one area on your gums sore, or you may have multiple sores at the same time throughout your mouth.
While researchers don’t know what causes canker sores, there may be bacterial or viral involvement. People with certain autoimmune disease may also be more likely to have gum problems caused by canker sores. Canker sores often come back over time and are not contagious.
Chemotherapy
This can have a number of unpleasant side effects, including painful, swollen, and bleeding gums. Many people undergoing treatment for cancer contend with stomatitis, which causes the development of painful sores and ulcers on the gums and throughout the mouth.

Can you have Gum Pain in Back of Mouth?

There are also instances where you are likely to experience gum pains at the back of your mouth. In most cases, the common culprit of this kind of condition is the eruption of wisdom of wisdom teeth.
During the normal growth stages one may start to develop molar teeth while the jaw bone expand in length to give more space for additional teeth. This is common in teenagers and adults in their early twenties.
However, this condition of painful gums at the back of the mouth may be triggered by some other conditions which we have talked about above. Incase this problem is persistent, visiting your dentist will be the best option to achieve a lasting solution.

Sore Gum around one Tooth Meaning

When brushing your teeth, it’s common to suddenly spot something you didn’t notice before. How, for example, could a swollen gums around one tooth form? There are a few reasons a gum can swell in one area, including an abscessed tooth, gum disease and improper brushing or flossing. Here are some causes of this common problem and what to do if it happens to you.
Hygienic problems
If there is painful gums around just one tooth in your mouth, it may be because you didn’t brush or floss correctly, which can leave behind food debris that causes decay and inflammation in the neglected area. Over time, this inadequate oral hygiene can cause gum disease as well. Be on the lookout for pale, red or swollen gums, as well as bleeding while brushing, pus coming from the tooth, a loose tooth or persistent bad breath and taste.
Abscessed tooth
This is very common cause of local gum sores and indicates you have an infection in or around your tooth. Often this can come from an untreated cavity that causes bacteria to spread throughout your tooth and infect it. Keep in mind it can cause irritation and ultimately cost you the tooth if left untreated. Because treatment is required for an abscessed tooth, your dentist may give you antibiotics for the infection.
A healthy mouth and beautiful smile depend on how much care you put into both your teeth and gums. Start with oral care at home and follow it up with semi-annual dentist visits to make sure your mouth health is uninterrupted from ear to ear.

Reasons for Gum Pain between Teeth

Any injury to the gums or teeth can be very painful. In some cases, however, the cause of severe dental pain is not obvious. Pain that comes on suddenly may be caused by particles of food that got lodged in a cavity and have started to irritate the nerve inside the tooth.
If you lose a filling or a crown, the nerve inside the tooth may be exposed, and you may feel severe pain when air or hot or cold substances touch the uncovered part of the tooth.
Painful gums that becomes more severe over a period of time is commonly caused by debris lodged under the gums. Popcorn is a common offender. Because the hard cellulose fibres of the popcorn kernel don’t break down, it can remain stuck between your gum and your tooth.

Home Remedies for Painful Gums

Pain on the gums is a common problem. The tissue that forms the gums is thick, fibrous and full of blood vessels. Hence, when there is swelling, the gums may protrude or bulge out and appear red instead of their normal pink color. This can cause the gums to become irritated, sensitive and even painful. The gums also may bleed more easily when brushing or flossing your teeth.
You can soothe the pain and swelling of gums with proper oral hygiene and home remedies. However, if you have swollen gums and symptoms persist for more than two weeks, see your dentist.
Warm and Cold Compresses
Warm and cold compresses can provide quick relief for sore, swollen gums as they help reduce pain and swelling. You need to hold the compresses against your face, not directly on the painful gums.
Salt Water
Salt is another effective remedy for swollen gums. It is used to inhibit growth of bacteria in the mouth and prevents infections that may contribute to several oral health issues. After brushing your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush, gently rub your gums with salt for a few seconds. Rinse it off with warm water. Do this once daily. After your gums are healthy again, do this 3 times a week to prevent recurrence.
Another option is to add ½ to 1 teaspoon of salt to a glass of lukewarm water and use it to rinse your mouth twice daily until the swelling subsides.
Hydrogen Peroxide
This can also help reduce gum inflammation and pain. It can even help kill germs and fight oral problems. For oral health, use food grade, 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution only. Mix equal parts of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution and water. Swish the solution around your gums and teeth for 30 seconds. Rinse it off with warm water.
Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with enough hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Rub this paste on your gums, wait 1 minute and then rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Use either of these treatments 2 or 3 times a week. Make sure you do not swallow hydrogen peroxide.
Turmeric
Turmeric is also a good home remedy for painful and swollen gums too. It contains curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. In addition, it prevents the spread of bacterial activity that causes several oral problems. Mix ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little water to make a paste. Apply this paste on the gums with your clean finger.
Black Tea Bags
Black tea bags have tannins that can help reduce inflammation of the gums. In addition, its antioxidant properties promote good oral health. Just steep a tea bag in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove it and allow it to cool to a bearable temperature. Hold the tea bag on the affected area of your gums for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse your mouth with a warm salt-water solution.
Aloe Vera
Another effective remedy to treat swollen and bleeding gums is aloe vera. This herb has anti-inflammatory as well as antibacterial properties that can prevent the growth of plaque causing bacteria in the mouth and soothe inflamed gums. Cut open an aloe vera leaf to get the gel and rub the gel on the gums for 1 to 2 minutes, the rinse with warm water.

Quick Relief from Gum Pain

Natural pain relief or home remedies are sought after by many individuals who are suffering from gum pains because it is very accessible and can eliminate pain right away.
Pain is such a daunting experience for many people especially the pain coming from the gums. Gum pains can happen any time without early warning. Usually, gum pain last for hours and can give any individual a hard time if doesn’t treated right away.
Those who suffer from painful gums can have a quick relief by using natural remedies. Here is some of the most common natural remedy that you can find right through your own home.

  • Use garlic. This is the most common ingredient found in their kitchen. Prepare herbal mixture using garlic. All you have to do is to peel the garlic and minced it by using a knife and place it around your painful gums. This is the easiest way to eliminate pain when you are suffering from gum infection or tooth infection.
  • The onion. Onion is also one of the most important elements that people use for everyday cooking but it can also be used as a natural remedy for gum pain. Many studies have shown that onion has antibacterial component that can help eliminate bacteria that are sometimes brought about by gum and tooth infection. It has been proven that if one person consumes one onion each day by mastication, they will eliminate the occurrence of having gum pain.
  • Vanilla extract. Gargle a pure vanilla extract throughout the mouth to relief you from extreme pain. These extract will help give the gum a numbness that would quickly relief you from pain.
  • Tea tree oil has long been use to eliminate any pain in mouth especially painful gums. To apply tea tree oil extract you have to use cotton to rub around the painful part of the gum. This oil does really help in eliminating the pain easily even though it doesn’t taste good at all.
  • Use of cloves. They can also help in stopping the spread of bacteria in your gum that might cause infection and extreme pain.
  • The lime extract. Lime is very rich in vitamin C. This is useful in maintaining overall oral health inside the mouth thus reducing the occurrence of gum pain.

More references

  1. Gums problem basics: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gum-problem-basics-sore-swollen-and-bleeding-gums
  2. Causes of painful gums: http://www.healthline.com/symptom/swollen-gums
  3. Causes of swollen gum around one tooth: http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/life-stages/adult-oral-care/article/what-causes-a-swollen-gum-around-one-tooth-1015

How to Stop Receding Gums Fast: Reverse, Grow Back, Prevent

Receding gums, as the name itself suggests, occurs when the gum tissue around your teeth wear away and the gums seem to recede backwards making a larger area of the surface of tooth more visible. When your gums recede, it gives rise to gaps between your teeth and gum line. This makes it easy for bacteria to build up and survive there.
The modern oral hygiene and dentistry have made receding gum treatment less of a problem than in generations past, even for older adults. It is now easier than ever to both prevent and treat gingival recession.

Keeping your gums healthy is the best way on how to stop receding gums. Brushing twice a day, flossing and keeping up with dental cleanings performed by a dental professional are usually all that is needed to keep gums from receding from the teeth.
However, it’s not that simple. Heredity can cause teeth to recede, despite even the best hygiene practices. You may grind your teeth or have a misalignment, making it easier for plaque and tartar to build up at the gum line, causing it to recede. Brushing to hard at the gum line can also cause gum recession to occur.

What Causes Receding Gums

It can be scary and painful to have receding gums, but this should not cause worry to you. There are several steps you can take at home that may serve as effective treatment for receding gums, depending on the severity of the problem. The first step for addressing an oral health matter is to consult your dentist to find out whether your oral health requires further measures.

Symptoms of receding gums

Although gum recession is very general dental problem, most of the people suffering from it doesn’t seem to notice it timely because the process is very slow and it occurs gradually. However, if your tooth has become sensitive, you should check for receding gums because this one of the very first signs of receding gums.
Also when you feel your tooth or teeth appear to be larger than earlier, immediately start treating your tooth as this is nothing but a receding gum problem. You can list the symptoms of receding gums as follows:

  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Tooth appearing larger than usual
  • Pain or tooth ache
  • bad breath
  • swollen and red gums
  • a bad taste in your mouth
  • loose teeth

You may notice that your bite is different. You may also notice some pain or that your gums are especially tender. One of the major concerns with receding gums is that they become more susceptible to bacteria growth. This is why regular dental check-ups, and good and daily oral care is essential.

Causes of gum recession

Gum recession has many causes. The most serious is periodontal disease. Other causes include:
Overly aggressive brushing or flossing
It is great to be enthusiastic about oral care, but you should make sure that you’re brushing, not scrubbing! Never use a toothbrush that is not soft. Be gentle on your teeth, and remember that taking care of them isn’t supposed to hurt.
Genetics
Your gums’ characteristics are determined by your genetics, just as the rest of your body is. If one or both of your parents have gum recession, you’re at a higher risk for receding gums.
Abnormal tooth positioning

The abnormal tooth positioning is the irregular appearance of the teeth on the jaw bone apart from the normal arrangement. If your teeth are not in alignment to one another, gum recession can occur in this situation. It is important to know ways on how to stop receding gums to handle this condition.
You may experience gum recession if your teeth aren’t in quite the right alignment. Prominent tooth roots, misaligned teeth, or attachment muscles can force gum tissue out of place.
Grinding your teeth, or bruxism
This habit can be the cause of many dental maladies, not just gum recession, so let your dentist know right away if you think you are grinding your teeth. Teeth grinding can be treated easily and painlessly with a mouth guard and several other options.
If you grind your teeth while you sleep, you may also notice gum recession. Grinding and clenching can put excessive forces on your teeth. This can cause gum recession.
Trauma to gum tissue. The gum tissue may recede when a traumatic injury has occurred on a tooth or teeth.
Poor oral health. If your oral health habits are questionable, gum recession may be a result of periodontitis. Gum diseases, specifically speaking periodontal diseases meaning bacterial infections that occur in your gums. These infections damage the gum tissue and your teeth’s supporting bone leading to gum recession and then other problems.
Poor oral hygiene. If you do not brush or floss properly, you may end up building plaque on your teeth. This plaque then turns into calculus, also called tartar. Tartar is the hard substance between your teeth and may cause gum recession.
Other more causes may include the following:

  • old age
  • medical conditions, such as diabetes
  • A sports injury or other trauma to the mouth can also lead to receding gums. For example, body piercing studs of the lip or tongue can rub against the gum tissue causing recession.
  • Smoking also damages the gums. You’re at increased risk for gum recession if you chew tobacco or dip with a pouch of tobacco.
  • Poor-fitting partial dentures can also cause gum problems
  • Hormonal changes, especially in women, may also sometimes cause receding gums. The changes in hormones make the gums more sensitive and vulnerable.
  • Piercing of your lips or tongue can also cause gum recession. This is because the jewelry that you wear after piercing may get rubbed against the gums. This may lead the gum tissue to wear away.

Can Receding Gums Grow Back

Gum infection (periodontitis) is a common condition that leads to receding gums. Gum deterioration occurs when chronic infection affects the tissues and bones around the teeth. The good news is that you can try to improve oral hygiene to stop gums from receding and there are other ways to stimulate its growth. More importantly, ask your dentist about gum health.
Gums are soft tissues that normally cover the bones holding the teeth in place as well as the roots of the teeth. Gums recede when they shrink and appear to be drawn back, resulting in the roots of the teeth becoming visible. This happens when gum infection is not treated, or when you brush your teeth aggressively.
In mild cases, natural remedies may help improve receding gums. While it’s not likely to reverse receding gums, you can do make things to prevent it from shrinking more. Severe cases must be seen and treated by a dentist for better results.

How to Reverse Receding Gums – Home Remedies

Maintain Proper Dental Hygiene
Brush your teeth using gentle, not aggressive strokes, and circular motion. Avoid pushing the gums upward but gently brush them along gum lines to remove bacteria that cause gingivitis. Use a small-headed toothbrush with a soft bristles.
Regular flossing is also recommended, since it effectively removes plaque between teeth and around gums. Dentists recommend flossing and brushing after every meal to prevent gum disease.
Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables contain a lot of nutrients such as vitamin C, which is important to maintain gum health. Vitamin C reduces inflammation from gum disease and promotes gum regeneration. Eat fresh fruits, such as strawberries and pineapple, and vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and asparagus, which are vitamin-rich foods.
Use a Germicidal Mouth Rinse
Rinse your mouth with mouthwash containing a few drops of essential oils (peppermint, clove, or sage) for about one minute. When done regularly this can help control gum infection that causes receding gums. Water with hydrogen peroxide also works to reduce bacterial growth and promote dental health.
Drink Lots of Plain Water for Cleaning and Healing
You can also keep gums healthy by drinking plain water instead of sugary beverages. Use plain water to swish around the mouth after eating to remove particles of food that may be left between the teeth and gums. Repeat this procedure as often as you can to have a clean mouth and teeth and to promote healing of gums.
Do Gums Grow Back after Injury
If you do not contain receding gums, even the root of teeth may become exposed which can then cause pain making your teeth extremely sensitive. Not only this, due to the damage caused to the supporting tissue and bone structures of your teeth, you may eventually lose teeth. The receding gums whether to grow back or not usually depends on severity of the condition, although this reverse process is not usually compete up the usual state.
Medical Treatment for Receding Gums
When you notice your receding gums in time, a dentist may treat it with deep cleaning processes used for teeth such as tooth scaling and root planing. In these, the dentist will carefully remove the plaque and tartar that builds up on your teeth and root surfaces below the gum line. If however, you have got late in identifying your receding gums, the dentist may go for gum surgery to repair the damage caused by your receding gums.
These surgeries may include such procedures as pocket depth reduction, regeneration of lost bone and tissue of teeth and gums, soft tissue graft etc. However, if you do not want to go for these dental treatments, you may very well adopt certain home remedies that may treat your receding gums. But if your gums have some infection, you must first visit a dentist so that you may know how deep the bacteria have invaded.
Otherwise home remedies for receding gums are sufficient. You can even grow back receding gums with proper dental care and certain natural remedies.

How to Stop Receding Gums Fast

If left untreated, gum recession can cause tooth sensitivity and can also lead to further gum and bone loss. As the gums recede, the teeth will appear longer and gaps may form between them.
The exposed dentin may also cause tooth sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet food and beverages… If gum disease is the culprit, chronic bad breath may accompany the condition.
Treatments
The first step in treatment is to determine what factors are contributing to the recession, so they can be lessened or, if possible, eliminated. For instance, crooked teeth can be straightened, tobacco use curbed and better oral hygiene methods incorporated.
One possible treatment is to attach bonded resin restorations to the exposed areas of your teeth. In this procedure, your dentist adheres a tooth-colored plastic material to the affected area that can then be shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth.
For significant gum loss, your dentist may recommend a gingival tissue graft. This procedure requires a periodontal surgeon to extract soft tissue from the roof of the mouth and transplant it to the area that has worn away. The newly-integrated tissue slows further gum recession and bone loss and protects the exposed root from decay.
Once those factors are addressed, different treatments can be used by your dental professional to enhance and restore the appearance to your gums:
Deep cleaning: Your dentist and dental hygienist may use special tools in order to remove the plaque and tartar build-up on the roots where the gums are receding, a procedure known as root planing.
Gum grafting: This involves taking the patient’s own healthy gum tissue from the palate or using a gum grafting material to replace the missing gum tissue. Your dentist may recommend you see a periodontist, a dental specialist who treats the gum tissue and supporting bone, for this surgical procedure.
Regeneration: In severe cases of gum recession, the bone may be destroyed. Recent advances in dentistry allow the periodontist to conduct a surgical procedure where a regenerative material is placed in the area of bone loss to help regenerate the bone and tissue. The gum tissue is then secured in that area where one or more teeth may have been involved.
Gum recession might occur very slowly, sometimes over a period of years. This can make it tough to spot if you don’t experience pain or sensitivity. However, if you notice that your teeth appear longer, or the spaces in between them appear bigger at the base, contact your dentist, as these may be signs that you need receding gums treatment.
Prevention
Prevent the advent or continuation of gum recession with proper oral care and regular visits to the dentist. Use an approved soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three to four months. Brush your teeth two to three times per day and floss at least once per day.
Place the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle from the tooth’s surface and use short, up and down strokes. If you already have some gum recession, position your toothbrush so that the sides of the bristles, rather than the ends, make contact with the tooth. This will help prevent further tissue destruction.

Can Receding Gums be reversed

Well I’m not sure what parts of your body grow back? If you cut off an arm for example it will not return. Gums can be healed quite easily. For instance I was having receding gums. Turns out hard is for dentures only, and otherwise all people should use soft.
Teeth do have the ability to heal from a cavity form. Once the cavity has hit a nerve though you will have to remove the tooth, or get a root canal otherwise you will suffer infection and nerve damage.
The misconception stems from the fact that most people do not realize the way diet affects teeth. Eating starches and sugars have a negative effect on teeth. Starches such as noodles and pasta are turned into sugars in the mouth by saliva.
Eating fats that contain vitamin K2, Vitamin D3 and calcium or taking those three in combination will help to heal the teeth, and indeed strengthen all bones. Another thing that is important is gelatin, and eating a bone broth made from beef is an amazing elixir for healing the teeth.
Drinking high amounts of sugars such as pops will leech calcium from the bones, and also destroys the teeth topically. This creates a double effect inside and out that leads to worse cavities.
I can say that in my life time as a child I had lots of cavities, but as an adult since I quit drinking soda and stopped eating starches, and have a healthier diet, I never get cavities anymore.

How to Fix Receding Gums from Brushing

If your receding gums are due to mild periodontitis, your dentist may treat you by performing deep cleaning of your teeth, which involves root planing and tooth scaling to remove tartar and plaque on the tooth surfaces and beneath your gum line. Antibiotics may be used to kill harmful bacteria.
Severe gum recession with bone loss and deep pockets may require surgery to repair damage. The following procedures may be used in treating gum recession:
Regeneration of Lost Bone
This procedure involves folding back gum tissue, removing bacteria and applying a material (a membrane, a tissue-stimulating protein or a graft tissue) used to regenerate gums and bone naturally. The gum is secured back over the root of your teeth.
Pocket Depth Reduction
This procedure involves folding back gum tissue, removing harmful bacteria from tooth pockets, and securing the gum back over tooth roots, to eliminate or reduce.
Soft Tissue Graft
This involves tissue grafting, that is, taking soft tissue from the roof of your mouth, which is sewn to the gum surrounding your exposed tooth root.
Your dentist will recommend the appropriate treatment, depending in the severity of your gum problem.
Mild gum recession may be able to be treated by your dentist by deep cleaning the affected area. During the deep cleaning also called tooth scaling and root planing plaque and tartar that has built up on the teeth and root surfaces below the gum line is carefully removed and the exposed root area is smoothed to make it more difficult for bacteria to attach itself. Antibiotics also may be given to get rid of any remaining harmful bacteria.
Noticing receding gums in time, may help a dentist to treat it with deep cleaning processes used for teeth such as tooth scaling and root planing. He will carefully remove the plaque and tartar that builds up on your teeth and root surfaces below the gum line.
If your gum recession cannot be treated with deep cleaning because of excess loss of bone and pockets that are too deep, gum surgery may be required to repair the damage caused by gum recession.
How Can I Prevent Gum Recession?
The best way to prevent gum recession is to take good care of your mouth. Brush and floss your teeth every day and see your dentist or periodontist at least twice a year, or as recommended.
If you have gum recession, your dentist may want to see you more often. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and ask your dentist to show you the proper way to brush your teeth. If a misaligned bite or teeth grinding is the cause of gum recession, talk to your dentist about how to correct the problem. Other ways to prevent gum recession include:

  • Quit smoking if you smoke.
  • Eat a well-balanced and healthy diet.
  • Monitor changes that may occur in your mouth.

By taking good care of your teeth, you can have a healthy smile forever.
More references

  1. Receding gums treatment and prevention: http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/gum-disease/article/receding-gums-treatment-and-prevention-0413
  2. Receding gums causes and treatment: http://www.livestrong.com/article/168934-receding-gums-causes-treatment/
  3. Can receding gums grow back: http://www.newhealthguide.org/Can-Receding-Gums-Grow-Back.html

Purple Gums Causes: Smoking, How to Get Rid, Treat

Purple gums are caused by gum disease and can be a sign of both gingivitis and periodontitis, as per research findings. Gum disease results from infection that causes inflammation. This inflammation process causes discoloration of the gums along with bleeding, bad breath, shiny gums and mouth sores. Gum disease is preventable with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits.
Quantum Health notes that regular dental cleanings are particularly important because dentists are able to clean areas that toothbrushes and floss cannot reach. Dentists also use a process called debridement, which completely removes tartar.

Why are my gums purple and pink?

Gums may change color and become darker at certain time normally, often under the influence of hormones. An example of this is, darkening of the gums or purple gums during pregnancy is completely normal and not something that needs to be worried about.
It is important also to visit your dentist in such cases, it’s not good to just assume. This is so because darkening of the gums, especially if it is occurring right around the teeth, may be a sign of a gum inflammation or a gum infection, resulting to the purple gum color – gingivitis in most cases.
This condition called gingivitis usually occur when bacteria collect between the teeth and the gum line and form an infection. It may need to be evaluated and treated, since it can lead to damage of the teeth or even tooth loss after a long effect.
In most cases, those conditions that cause purple gums are treated with better attention to good oral hygiene, including more frequent brushing and flossing. Deep cleansing of the gum tissue and teeth in your dentist’s office can help as well. Occasionally more invasive techniques are also used, but these are reserved for the most severe cases.

My Bottom Gums are Purple – meaning

A purple gum line can be one of the first signs of periodontal disease. It is the result of plaque and calculus getting under the gum line and causing necrosis of the tissues. Other signs would be that these teeth are sensitive when you brush or bite on something, that this area bleeds when brushing, or that you notice a bad breath. Sometimes the affected teeth with purple gums will be slightly movable.
Your dentist is right that receding gums can be normal but the purple color is not. It can be a sign of further gum disease. It can also be a sign of lead poisoning which is rare but worth mentioning if you are having any house renovations or have hobbies that expose you to lead materials.
You may benefit from a deep scaling. I see that you go every four months. I understand that you brush and floss regularly also but when there is heavy plaque or calculus under the gum line then that home care may not be enough. A deeper mechanical scaling would be indicated.
Let the dentist know if your gums are bleeding and how many teeth are affected by the purple gums

What Causes Purple Gums

One day you may see healthy pink gums in the mirror, and the next you might notice an ominous purple or brown tint creeping over them.
Brown gums or gum darkening could be completely natural based on your ethnicity or aging. But if your gums are suddenly turning purple or brown, it may be a sign that something dangerous is happening inside your mouth that requires professional attention.

Main Causes of Gums turning Purple or Brown.

Gingivitis
In many cases, gingivitis becomes periodontitis as gum disease progresses. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that collects between the gums and teeth. These bacteria produce toxic by-products that inflame the gums. Gingivitis can lead to tooth loss. It is estimated that 75 percent of adults in the United States suffer from at least minor gingivitis.
Periodontitis
It causes the gums to recede and deep pockets to form between the teeth and gums, which leaves more room for bacteria to grow. This condition leads to tooth loss, purple gums, chronic bad breath and altered appearance of the mouth. Aggravating factors for gum disease include poor diet and immune deficiencies.
Naturally Darker Gums
If you have naturally brown or darker gums based on your skin pigment, then you have no need to worry. Gum colour varies just like skin colour does. If you aren’t Caucasian, you may have dark brown gums or may experience spotted darkness on your gums. This can be due to an increase of melanin production in your body and is completely normal and natural.
Age
You may also notice that your gums change colour as you grow older. If this change in colour is uniform and you don’t experience any other issues, including swollen gums, bleeding, and pain, this change in colour to purple gums may be completely natural. That being said, we always recommend that you check in with a dentist before passing a change in gum colour off as normal.
Medication & Smoking
Both medication and smoking can result in gum discoloration. One of the most common causes of oral pigmentation change is a condition called smoker’s melanises. If you have Smoker’s Melanises, your gums, cheeks, or palate may turn purple or black due to smoking or using drugs that contain nicotine.
Smoking can also lead to gum disease and oral cancer, which can result in your gums turning purple or brown. Finally, some medication can also cause your gums to change colour.
What Causes Purple Gums?
Purple gums can signal that you have gum disease (periodontal disease). As gum disease worsens, you may notice that your gums are swollen and appear to be bright red or purple. Plaque is the root cause of gum disease, at first irritating your gums and eventually causing deep infections that can destroy your tissue and bone.
It is important that you practice proper oral hygiene to avoid gum disease and see a dentist as soon as possible if you think you are suffering with the disease.
A spot that is on purple gums could also be a sign of oral malignant melanoma. You should see a medical professional as soon as possible if you have a purple spot anywhere in your mouth.

Can you get Purple Gums from Smoking

It is widely known that smoking can have a great number of adverse effects on the health of the smoker. Due to the nature by which the action of smoking is performed, it is only natural that oral health would be one of the areas most negatively affected by the act. It is very important, therefore, that a smoker take extra care of his/her mouth and teeth.

Oral Health Problems Caused By Smoking

Smoking can cause many serious problems for teeth and oral structures. The problem can be further exacerbated when proper health care is not followed. Among the most common oral problems, smokers are at an increased risk for gum disease. Smokers are four times more likely of developing this problem than non-smokers.
Smokers are at a higher risk for developing leukoplakia, leading to throat, lung, and oral cancers. It can cause the salivary glands to become inflamed and contribute to deterioration of bone structure. Smokers also have a harder time recovering from dental procedures such as periodontal treatments, dental implants, and tooth extraction. To add on that, a smoker will develop purple gums
Smoking also stains the teeth and can cause bad breath. In some smokers, the tongue can develop a condition known as black hairy tongue, due to a growth that may grow as a result of tobacco use. The condition causes the tongue to become yellow, green, black, or brown, and give the appearance of being hairy. Smokers may also lose the sensation of taste and smell.

How to Get Rid of Purple Gums

Unnatural gum discoloration is typically a sign that something’s going wrong in your mouth. The best way to avoid issues like gum disease is to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, floss every day, avoid sugary and acidic foods, and visit your dentist regularly. You should also avoid smoking, which can contribute to gum disease and cancer.
Finally, if you notice that your gums change colour after taking a new medication, ask your doctor for possible alternatives. If you notice that your gums have turned purple or brown, we highly suggest that you visit a doctor as soon as possible. While it could be a natural occurrence, it may also be a serious warning sign.
Brushing your teeth
Choose the right toothpaste. You might be tempted to skimp on toothpaste, but if you want to improve your gum health, you would be wise to choose a toothpaste specifically designed for it. Pay a little extra and buy a toothpaste that is specially formulated for gum health.

  • Even if you adopt the practice of brushing before meals, brushing before you go to bed is still essential.
  • Although twice a day is the bare minimum, it’s recommended that you actually brush three times a day for optimal oral health.

Brush for at least two minutes. Most people don’t brush their teeth for long enough to truly protect their tooth and gum health. Split your mouth into four quadrants: upper left, upper right, bottom left, and bottom right. Brush each quadrant for at least thirty seconds to ensure you’re brushing long enough, and hitting all parts of your mouth.
Don’t brush too often or too vigorously. Brushing more than three times a day on a regular basis, or applying too much pressure when you brush can actually damage your gums and teeth. Dentists call this toothbrush abrasion, and it can result in both receding gums and enamel deterioration that can lead to sensitive teeth.

  • The main cause is represented by the back and forth brushing with high pressure and rapid movements.
  • If you’re using an electric brush, let it do all the work. Don’t apply extra pressure of your own.

Replace your toothbrush regularly. Toothbrush bristles will wear down and become less effective with use. They can also be homes for all sorts of bacteria they find in your mouth, so you need to replace them from time to time. Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or when the bristles start spreading apart making each stroke cause more harm than good
Flossing
Use any type of floss. There are a wide variety of flosses in the dental aisle at the store, from nylon to monofilament, from flavorless to mint-flavored. There isn’t a significant difference between any of these types of floss. Use whichever kind feels most comfortable for you. More important than what type of floss you use is that you actually use it regularly.
Floss at least once a day. Flossing can be uncomfortable and sometimes gross, but dentists recommend it for a reason. Some say that flossing is actually more important than brushing for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

  • Whereas over-brushing can be damaging to your gums, over-flossing won’t cause any harm.
  • Flossing also prevents stains between your teeth. These are very difficult to remove even by the dentist.
  • It doesn’t matter when you floss — day or night, before or after meals. Just make sure you do it at least once a day.

Use proper flossing technique. The ADA provides specific instructions on how to perfect your flossing technique.

  • Use about 18 inches of floss, securing them to your fingers by winding them around the middle finger on each hand.
  • Make sure not to cut off blood circulation to your fingertips. Unwind and rewind as necessary throughout the flossing process.
  • Pinch the floss between your thumb and forefinger to stabilize.
  • Use a back-and-forth sawing motion to ease the floss between your teeth, all the way up to the gum.
  • Don’t snap the floss up hard against your gums. This can be painful, and can cause gum damage over time.

Floss through the bleeding. If you’re not a regular flosser, you’ll probably see some blood on your floss when you start back up. Don’t take this as a hint to stop flossing! Your gums are bleeding because you’re not flossing! Continuing your daily flossing will help stop the bleeding over time and improve, not hurt, your gum health.
Using mouthwash
Buy the right mouthwash. Mouthwash is an important product because you only target your teeth and gums through brushing and flossing. Mouthwash can treat the rest of your mouth — the cheeks, the tongue, and other exposed surfaces that need cleaning in order to maintain gum health. Choose a mouthwash that has the ADA’s seal of approval on the packaging.

  • Mouthwash can be seen as an oral disinfectant that eliminates a high percentage of the bacteria and plaque involved in cavities or any other dental and mucosal issues.
  • Choose therapeutic mouthwash specially formatted for gum health over cosmetic mouthwash designed for temporary breath freshening.
  • Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes that can dry out the skin and cause lesions over time.

Make your own mouthwash. Studies have suggested that turmeric is as good at treating gum disease like gingivitis as store-bought mouthwashes.

  • Dissolve 10 mg of turmeric extract in 3.5 oz. of hot water.
  • Let the water cool down to a comfortable temperature.
  • Other natural alternatives to store-bought mouthwashes include cinnamon, fennel, ginger, lemon essential oil, tea tree oil, raw honey, and many others

Use proper mouth washing technique. Look at the packaging for specific instructions before proceeding, because mouthwashes with special formulas might have different recommendations for how long you should keep it in your mouth, or whether or not you should dilute the product.

  • If the packaging says to dilute the product, follow their instructions for doing so. Use warm water. If you feel a burning sensation or the taste is too strong, dilute it further.
  • Pour it into your mouth and swish it around your mouth vigorously for thirty to sixty seconds.
  • Gargle the mouthwash in the back of your throat for another thirty to sixty seconds.
  • Spit the mouthwash out into the sink.
  • Rinse your mouth with water.

Don’t use mouthwash immediately after brushing. Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash can actually undo some of the benefits of brushing your teeth. For best results, either use mouthwash before brushing your teeth, or at least half an hour after brushing your teeth.
Seeking medical help
Make regular appointments with a dentist. Even if you’re taking care of your oral hygiene very well at home, there are certain things like removing plaque build-up that simply can’t be done at home. You must see a dentist with professional tools for this aspect of your gum and tooth health.

  • How often you visit the dentist depends on your individual needs, but you should have your teeth and gums checked at least once a year.
  • Your dentist will advise you on when you should return for your next check-up.

Seek immediate attention if your condition requires it. There are many problems that could require professional attention, but the main symptoms for gum disease include:

  • Swollen or red gums
  • Bleeding beyond what is normal for early flossing
  • Loose teeth
  • Receding gums with pain or sensitivity
  • Chronic bad breath or bad taste in the mouth

Find a good dentist. The ADA provides a search tool for finding ADA-member dentists in your local area. They also recommend taking the following step for finding a reputable dentist in your area:

  • Ask friends, family, and co-workers for recommendations
  • Ask your doctor for a recommendation
  • If you’re moving, ask your current dentist or their staff to help you find a reputable dentist in your new area
  • If you have special needs, such as gum disease, you may need to find a specialist, like a periodontist.

How to Treat Purple Gums

Having natural pink color gums is very important for good smile. Smile looks beautiful if one has beautiful teeth with natural looking pink gums. But that is not always possible. Generally the gums color is same as the skin color. The people from the west are fair and their gum color is also pink mostly.
Treatment of the dark gums is possible. The blackness of the dark gums is merely superficial. When the outer dark colored layer is removed, the pink aesthetic looking gums appear.
Surgical method for making purple gums as natural pink:

  • The most popular effective and simple method of removing the darkness of the gums is the surgical removal of the outer layer of the gums which gives the dark colour to the gums.
  • The procedure though surgical is a painless outdoor procedure carried out under local anaesthesia.
  • In this procedure the outer layer of gum epithelium is removed with a layer of underlying connective tissue. After the removal the connective tissue which is   left to heal by secondary intention. The new epithelium which is formed is devoid of dark pigmentation.
  • The positive results can be seen within one to two days.
  • After this procedure 20 to 30% of the pigmentation returns after 5 to 6 months and then stays as such.
  • If few precautions like not exposing oneself for long hours to sunlight are observed then the gums stay pink and there is marked improvement in aesthetics.
  • This surgical procedure can be repeated if the gums again become dark and looks bad.

More references

  1. Gum changes: https://www.zocdoc.com/answers/10395/why-have-my-gums-changed-color
  2. Purple gum line: http://www.justanswer.com/dental/79pzs-purple-gum-line.html
  3. How to treat purple coloured gums: http://www.wikihow.com/Get-Pink-Gums
  4. How to make gums retain their colour: http://www.identalhub.com/article_dark-gums-can-they-be-made-natural-pink-123.aspx

Lump on Gum Causes: Hard, Painful, White, Bump, Treat

Lumps on gum commonly form on either the upper or the lower jaw, very close to the cheek. In many cases, people do not realize the presence of these lumps, since they are usually painless. However, they do get harden eventually and this is when people usually notice the lumps.

There are numerous things that may cause a lumps to occur on gum. The presence of a flat bone called a torus on the tongue side of the lower jaw or on the hard palate of the mouth is the main reason why it is possible for a lump to grow on gum.
These tori do not generally trigger any complications when your mouth, tongue, gum, and teeth are healthy and well-maintained, and you do not experience any incidents giving a knock on these flat bones.
However, knocked out teeth, removable dentures, and multiple teeth growths may influence the state of these tori, causing the appearance of lumps on gum. Lumps that form on gum are often related to mouth cancer, although in fact, not all gum lumps are cancerous. Specific symptoms, signs, and locations of the occurring lumps may tell you a lot about the main causes of its presence.
A lump on the gums can indicate something very simple or a serious one. Infections might appear as a mass on the gums, and they can also have pain and swelling, and you might run a high fever. Sometimes oral cancers appear as a lump on the gums, and that’s why you should always have a lump on gums checked out, regardless of the reasons for it.

What a lump on gum means

Observing the symptoms and signs of lumps on your gum will enable you to tell what possible causes are.
Examine the texture and characteristic of the lump
Lumps on your gum may be either soft or hard. Hard lump on gum is in most cases, a small bony bump from the torus. It is possible for the torus to be non-malignant, and this often causes hard lump on the gum.
Otherwise, soft gum lump may indicate something different than merely a torus growth. In a few cases, recurrent soft lumps on gum indicate oral cancers, although this diagnosis needs to be drawn based on many others characteristics of the lump and the mouth in general.
Find out the locations where in the lump grows
The most common locations for a gum lump to occur are on the lower jaw near the cheek or on the lower or upper jaw near the wisdom teeth. The lump on these locations are very common as a result of the ruptured gum area from wisdom teeth trying to erupt. This may also cause the swelling of the lymph nodes. A lump on the gum near the site where the wisdom teeth should be may not always be painful, yet it often affects your ability to chew or merely close the mouth.
Determine the color of the lumps
In addition to texture and location of the lump, you can also determine what your lump might convey by seeing through its color. Dark or light shade of the gum lumps may tell what complication might be going on inside the mouth.

  • If you have a bright red lump on gum, which is in the form of soft clusters, you might need to anticipate an oral cancer, although a series of tests and examination might still be required. This is possible because a cancer cell will need a steady blood supply in order to maintain its fast growth.
  • Dark red colored gum lumps that grow inside the gum, on the inner lip or cheek, or inside the jaw might signify oral cancer symptoms, which require immediate doctor visit.
  • If you are suffering from painful-painless lump that is pinkish or light pink in color, it is very likely that you have a mandibular torus growth. This is possible, since the bone is present just under the gum. However, dark pink lesions which stay for more than 2 weeks might show a lot more than merely the torus problem.

Sometimes a lump on the gums is a very mild condition that goes away after a few days. But if the lump on your gums stays for a while, it might mean there is bacterial growth underneath the lump. It could also mean that you have an abscessed tooth. This is important to take care of as an infection of this kind can spread to your surrounding teeth and even to your bloodstream.

I have a bump on my gums what could it be?

The presence of a lump, or mass, on the gums can be caused by several different conditions. It may be felt as a bump or hard or soft lump anywhere on the gums. An infection, such as a bacterial infection or localized abscess, can appear as a mass on the gums. Gum or mouth cancer or tumors of the teeth or jaw are rarer causes of a mass on the gums.
Also, a cyst of the jaw is also a possible cause of a lump or mass on the gums. Traumatic injuries and canker sores are some of the more common causes of a mass on the gums. Sometimes, the hormonal changes of pregnancy can cause a small lump or bump to form near the gum line, called granuloma gravidarum.

What Causes Lump on Gums

Some of the more common reasons for lumps on the gums are canker sores, which happen to a great number of people, and those tend to go away on their own or with over the counter medications.
Traumatic injuries, including having a tooth extracted, can also lead to pain, tenderness and lumps. Occasionally the hormonal changes of pregnancy can lead to lumps in the mouth, and those tend to go away as soon as the woman delivers.
Gum lumps can be any size or any color, and it might have signs of infection, such as redness or pus. Some of these lumps are serious and some of them can be treated easily with home remedies or over the counter drugs. Here are the most common causes:
Irritation
A simple irritation of one particular area can lead to a lump on gums. This often happens if you have had something in your mouth pressing against one spot, or if you have a habit of moving your teeth in such a way that they scrape against the opposite gum. These irritations might lead to your immune system forming a lump to try to protect the area.
Canker Sores
These ulcers are quite common and can be caused by numerous things, such as spicy foods, infection, and even excessive body heat. They might be white and painful, pink or red, and often appear as a lump.
Gingivitis
This gum disease begins with inflammation, which can feel like lumps along the gums, then becomes worse without treatment. The bacteria is slowly eating away at the surrounding tissue.
Tooth Extraction
A lump on gums often appears after a tooth extraction. This could be a blood clot that forms there during healing, or simply because of irritation to the area, which will go away within a few days.
Dental problems

  • Most common – tooth abscess
  • Pus forms at the level of the gum, leading to the appearance of the lump
  • Because of the infection, the gum suffers from an inflammation process (more prominent lump)

Dental treatments

  • Most common – dental extraction
  • Lump can be represented by the blood clot resulting from the haemorrhage, caused by the actual dental extraction
  • The lump can also appear because the gum was irritated, as the result of the dental extraction

Poor Oral Hygiene
If you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, bacteria will build up and you will have higher risks of teeth cavity and gum disease.
Diet High in Sweet Food
If you eat a lot of sweets, chocolates, and starchy foods, such as white bread, crisps, biscuits, and pretzels, you’re more likely to develop a bacterial infection that will lead to tooth decay and abscess.
Weakened Immune System
Your immune system may not be functioning properly due to some underlying conditions, such as diabetes. Weakened immune system leads to higher possibility of infection.
Other causes

  • Oral cancer
  • Local trauma or injury
  • Hormonal changes (pregnancy).

Hard Lump on Gum above Tooth

Occasionally the gums may bleed if you brush the teeth and gums very hard, make use of a hard-bristled toothbrush, or the snap dental floss hard against the gums. Be gentle with the teeth use a very soft-bristled toothbrush as well as floss very carefully to assist to prevent bump on gums.
Smoking as well as using of other tobacco related products increases the risk for gum disease which can be seen with a hard lump on gums. Smokers have a very higher chance of experiencing gum disease throughout their mouths than the non-smokers.
You may not experience the symptoms of bleeding or a lump on the gums due to the normal bleeding immune response that is affected by tobacco use.
Chewing of the tobacco or use of the snuff can push the gums back in the area of the mouth where the tobacco is normally inserted. Constant irritation brought about by the tobacco products increases the risk of oral cancer.

Reason for a Hard Lump on Gum that is Painful

The mouth is a mirror of health or disease, a sentinel or early warning system a potential source of pathology affecting other systems and organs less common, but very serious, are oral and pharyngeal. This section deals with only some of the more common tumours and growths that can occur in the mouth. Painful lumps in on the gums may be sores that have been infected.
It is important to seek professional help when you realize your gums have pain that is continuous without seizing. A painful lump on gum usually is an indication of a more serious problem in your mouth.

Cyst on Gum above Tooth

A cyst is a sac of tissue that has either fluid or soft material inside it. They can form in a wide range of tissues including in the face and mouth including gums. Some can form next to or around teeth, which are called dental cysts. Cysts are a reaction of the body to a condition and are usually relatively slow growing. They can be sterile or become infected.

Why dental cysts form

Dental cysts can form at the tip of the roots of dead teeth. They can also form around the crowns of buried teeth. Most cysts form because the teeth they are associated with have died from infection or trauma. Others form because of a mistake in the way the teeth have developed. Rarely, dental cysts are part of a genetic syndrome that has other symptoms. Your dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon will explain to you more about the cause of your cyst.
Any teeth can develop lump on gum from dental cysts. Mostly people will only have one at a time, but some people are more susceptible to developing them either because of the condition of their teeth or because they have an inherited condition that has dental cysts as part of its features.
Problems can dental cysts cause
Dental cysts can cause several problems but some remain undetected for months or even years. Many cause problems when:

  • They become infected (causing pain and/or swelling);
  • They slowly replace some bony tissue (they can weaken the jaws),
  • They press against other teeth and structures;
  • They prevent the normal function of the teeth and mouth tissues.

How to know if you have a dental cyst

  • You might find out that you have a lump on gum from a dental cyst when it becomes infected.
  • Your dentist might tell you that you have a dental cyst after looking at a dental or jaw X-ray: cysts can be seen as darker areas (‘holes’).
  • Some people only find out they have a dental cyst when their jaw breaks after trauma (because the jaw is weakened by the cyst).

Bump on Gums not Painful Meaning

At times you may develop a lump on gums that has no pain. An abscess is a common dental problem. Such infections can come from a variety of sources, even though it is usually only on the gum that they appear. For example, an infection arising from a diseased tooth will appear on the gum that lies over that tooth. You may not know at some point that the lump exists, not unless you feel it accidentally with a tongue.
Common sources of dental abscesses are:

  • Tooth decay. This is teeming full of bacteria. If this bacteria gets into the dental pulp, it can spread to cause infection inside and at the root of the tooth. This is known as a periapical abscess, and can travel out to the gum that lies over the root. Pulp deathcan also result from dental treatment on a diseased tooth.
  • In severe gum disease, abscesses can form in the gaps that occur between the teeth and gums. These gaps around the teeth and under the gum-line are hard to clean, and are full of the microbes that cause the periodontitis which is seen as a lump on gum.
  • Foreign objects,such as food debris lodging in the mouth, causing a gingival abscess

White Bumps on Gums no Pain

A lump or bump on your gums is a mild condition for us, noncancerous growths in our mouth can be caused by an irritation and they are relatively normal. In severe case that the bumps or lumps may indicate to be cancerous, the doctor will remove them by surgery.
There is a flat bone known as torus, which is a benign bony growth that is found on the tongue side of the lower jaw, or even on the hard palate. And these small white bump on gums probably got the name from their bulbous shape and the fact that they are usually made of strong, solid bone.
Tori are generally not a very big problem, except when the removable prosthesis like the partial dentures or even complete dentures must be fully fitted, or you have many growths that grow very large that they can touch or even irritate each other.
Oral cancers are usually always soft tissue lesions, in other words they are very soft, not very hard bumps. Cancer is rarely hard in presentation like the mandibular Tori. Cancer is not normally diagnosed feel alone, however, due to the fact that there is nothing particularly unique or the characteristic of the consistency or even the texture of cancer. The diagnostic parameters have too little or even no value in the diagnosis of cancer.
While mandibular tori is normally a painless lump, both the oral cancer and mandibular torus may create painful lumps in the mouth also.

How to Get Rid of Lump on Gum – Home Remedy

A lump on the gums might be very painful, annoying as well as frightening. Here are various ways to assist fight it.
Salt Water & Clove Oil
When a person is dealing with the pain of a bump on gums, salt water rinses may assist the pain disappear. Using clove oil on the spot may also bring a bit of relief. Over the counter medications, such as ibuprofen or even acetaminophen, may also make a big difference. Try using the mouthwashes with a very high alcohol content or a blend of a hydrogen peroxide and water to gargle remember not to swallow the concoctions.
Antibiotic
Antibiotics are usually prescribed for problems like this. The antibiotics may also often deliver relief within a period of about 24 to 48 hours, and once the swelling disappears, the dentist may want to get rid of the tooth or do other procedures so as to ensure the problem is gone.
Medical Options
If the problem is too serious, the dentist may perform minor surgery to assist you get over the issue. Scaling as well as root planning are the first options, and if that fails to work, a root canal may be in order. If that also fails to work, tooth extraction or periodontal surgery may be needed.
Cleaning Your Teeth and Roots
Keep the teeth too clean by brushing as well as flossing every day, and use of mouthwash with a good alcohol content to clean and freshen your mouth after each and every brush. This may also assist to avoid the formation of pockets that gets hold bacteria.
Regular Dental Visit
Keep up with very regular dental visits for the cleaning and the x-rays to identify lump on gums. This may assist to avoid the problems by spotting them before they begin.
When to See a Doctor
If you are much suffering from the pain while chewing, swelling of the jaw, or trouble opening the mouth, it’s time to see a dentist. Other problems that might send you to the dentist include a bad odor from the mouth that won’t go away with mouthwash use, occasional bleeding from your gums and fever or any other signs of infection.

Medical Treatments for Dental Abscess

When natural remedies don’t seem to work and your pain is becoming worse, you need to consider going for a medical treatment.
Root Canal Treatment
If the soft tissue on your abscessed tooth has swollen, your dentist may start by draining it first. Your tooth will be opened up and the nerve that is sending pain sensations to your brain will be removed. The infected pulp inside the canal will also be cleaned out.
Traction
Sometimes, your dentist cannot save your abscessed tooth through root canal treatment. They will have to extract it and prescribe some medicines.
Antibiotics
You don’t usually need antibiotics if your infection isn’t spreading to areas other than your abscessed tooth. It is also important to use antibiotics if your immune system isn’t functioning properly.
More references;

  1. Lump on gums: http://www.md-health.com/Lump-on-Gums.html
  2. Lump or mass on gums: http://www.medicinenet.com/lump_or_mass_on_gums/symptoms.htm
  3. Symptoms of lump on gums: http://mddk.com/lump-on-gums.html

Swollen Gums around Tooth: Wisdom, Back of Mouth, Painful, Remedy

Your gums are very important to your oral health. The gums are made of firm, pink tissue that covers your jawbones. This tissue is thick, fibrous, and full of blood vessels. If your gums become swollen, they may protrude, or bulge out. Swelling of your gums usually begins where the gum meets the tooth. Your gums may become so swollen, however, that they begin to hide parts of your teeth. Swollen gums usually are red instead of their normal pink color.
Swollen gums around tooth, also called gingival swelling, are often irritated, sensitive, or painful. You may also notice that your gums bleed more easily when brushing or flossing your teeth. This is a common problem, and can have a number of different causes. If you are suffering from gum swelling that lasts longer than a few days, you should contact your dental professional.

Why is mu gum swollen around one tooth?

There are a few reasons a gum can swell in one area, including an abscessed tooth, gum disease and improper brushing or flossing. Here are some causes of this common problem and what to do if it happens to you.
Hygienic issues
Swollen gum around tooth in your mouth may be because you didn’t brush or floss correctly, which can leave behind food debris that causes decay and inflammation in the neglected area of the gum. Over time, this inadequate oral hygiene can cause gum disease as well. Be on the lookout for pale, red or swollen gums, bleeding while brushing, pus coming from the tooth, a loose tooth or persistent bad breath and taste.
Gum Disease
A common known cause for a swollen gum around one tooth is gum disease. This is a prevalent condition for which you should be on guard each time you brush. In its earliest stages, its symptoms show up as red and swollen gums that, although painless, might still bleed. As the disease progresses, it can cause loose teeth due to gums that have pulled away in certain spots.
Abscessed Tooth
This condition also a very common cause of local gum swelling and indicates you have an infection in or around your tooth. Usually this can come from an untreated cavity that causes bacteria to spread throughout your tooth and infect it. Abscessed tooth can cause irritation and ultimately cost you the tooth if left untreated.
Its symptoms include throbbing pain, red or swollen gums around tooth, a swollen jaw or face, a tender or sore tooth, a fever and even a salty taste in your mouth. However, treatment is required for an abscessed tooth. Therefore, your dentist may give you antibiotics for the infection, a root canal to remove the infected pulp or extract the tooth entirely depending on the severity.
Gingivitis
This is the most common condition when it comes to swollen gums. It’s a gum disease that causes your gums to become irritated and swollen. Many people don’t know they have gingivitis because the symptoms can be quite mild. However, if it’s left untreated, gingivitis can eventually lead to a much more serious condition called “periodontitis” and possible tooth loss.
Gingivitis may result from poor oral hygiene, which allows plaque to build up on the gum line and teeth. Plaque is a film composed of bacteria and food particles deposited on the teeth over time. If plaque remains on the teeth for more than a few days, it becomes tartar, which is harder than plaque.
Pregnancy
Swollen gums can also occur during pregnancy. The hormonal changes in your body that occur during pregnancy may increase the blood flow in your gums. This increase in blood flow can cause your gums to be more easily irritated, leading to swelling. These hormonal changes can also hinder your body’s ability to fight off bacteria that typically cause gum infections. This can increase your chance of developing gingivitis.
Malnutrition
When you are deficient in vitamins, especially vitamins B and C, can increase the chances of developing swollen gums around tooth. Vitamin C, for example, plays an important role in the maintenance and repair of your teeth and gums. If your vitamin C levels drop too low, you could develop scurvy. Scurvy can cause anemia and gum disease.
Infection
Infections caused by fungi and viruses can potentially cause swollen gums. If you have herpes, it could lead to a condition called acute herpetic gingivostomatitis, which causes swollen gums. Thrush, which is the result of an overgrowth of naturally occurring yeast in the mouth, can also cause gum swelling. Untreated dental decay can lead to a dental abscess, which is localized gum swelling.
Medications
If you have recently started taking medication, your swollen gums may be a side effect of the drug. Talk to your doctor about your side effects to the medication, and find out if there are alternatives.
Brand switch
If you have recently changed your brand of toothpaste or mouthwash, you may be having a reaction to one of the ingredients. This is more often to people who are very sensitive to allergic reactions. Always stick to what you are used to if you have this problem.
There are many other possible causes and contributors to gum inflammation, so discussing your symptoms with your dentist is the best way to get an accurate and complete diagnosis.

How to Prevent Swollen Gums around tooth

Not only brushing your teeth twice a day; flossing in between your teeth and using an effective is enough. In addition, make sure you’re brushing, flossing and rinsing with proper tools and technique. If you have a large space between two teeth, for instance, an interdental brush can help clean in between them.
To add on that, you should be going for your dental check-ups at least twice a year not only so your dentist can check the overall health of your teeth, but whether you have swollen gums around tooth or have receded gums.
A healthy mouth and beautiful smile depend on how much care you put into both your teeth and gums. Start with oral care at home and follow it up with semi-annual dentist visits to make sure your mouth health is uninterrupted from ear to ear.

Swollen Gums around wisdom Tooth

Pericoronitis is a condition which occurs when a part of the tooth breaks partially through the gum. Plaque and food gets caught underneath this and remains there. This causes irritation and swelling of the gum tissue and infection. If left unattended, the infection and swelling can extend to the neck and cheek regions as well.
If you are suffering swollen gums around tooth, the following parts can be a great help for you to relieve your discomforts.

Causes of Swollen Gum around Wisdom Tooth

Natural reaction of the body to infection is to supply the affected part with oxygen rich blood, red blood cells and nutrients to hasten the healing. Pain and swelling occurs because the small blood vessels in the area expand to increase the blood flow to the area. This is the same reaction that happens when the gums around the wisdom tooth swell.
Apart from pericoronitis, gingivitis can cause swollen gums around wisdom tooth, which is caused by the presence of plaque or bacterial biofilms sticking to the tooth surfaces. The lesions can be caused due to viral, bacteria, fungal or genetic causes. The gum tissue gets stretched over the connective tissue and gets inflamed, swollen and appear shiny, which will bleed easily when flossing or brushing.
Other causes of gum pain can be impaction, infection, tooth decay, cysts and pain due to pressure. The following are some conditions that swollen gums around tooth may occur:

  • When the wisdom tooth doesn’t fully grow but breaks out from the gums, the condition is called impacted tooth.
  • When an erupted wisdom tooth is covered with a flap of skin, gum infection like pericoronitis occurs.
  • When the tooth begins to die, tooth decay occurs.
  • Small pockets of fluid called cysts also form near the wisdom tooth.
  • When the wisdom tooth erupts through gums, pressure pain occurs.

Swollen Gum around One Tooth no Pain

There are some cases you may have a swollen gum that has no pain. Should you get worried? For some instance, that may not be a cause for alarm, maybe it is just a small injury that may have occurred while you were carrying out your normal daily oral hygiene. However, do not assume such conditions just like that.
For instance, if the swollen gums around tooth start developing white spots or patches hence with no pain, it might be an infection called leukoplakia. This condition is usually painless and it may be seen with swollen whitish gums. For this, you have to be concerned as it may develop to a more serious problem. You can visit your dentist who may advise you on the right antibiotics to use on such conditions.

Swollen Gum behind back tooth

Wisdom teeth do not always emerge into the mouth properly because there may not be enough room in the mouth for them to fit. Sometimes, a part of the tooth may remain covered by a flap of gum. Food particles and bacteria can get trapped under this flap and cause a mild irritation, a low-grade infection called pericoronitis and swelling. This usually happens with the lower wisdom teeth.
What to do for this condition
You cannot treat pericoronitis at home. If you recognize the symptoms, get treatment right away. The symptoms may include:

  • A bad taste in the mouth — this often happens when there is an infection.
  • Bad breath(halitosis) – more so from the swollen gums around tooth
  • Pain in the area around your back teeth — Pericoronitis usually occurs around the wisdom teeth.
  • Swelling behind the very back teeth — if you have pericoronitis, you’ll notice that the gum tissue in the back of your mouth is swollen. This swelling may not allow you to bite comfortably without pinching the swollen tissues between your teeth.
  • Not being able to open your mouth full.

Swollen Gums in Back of Mouth

If you are teen and you have not developed molar teeth, you may experience this problem. All teeth usually never emerge at the same time.
As you continue to grow, your jaw bone continue to increase in length as well. This provide enough space for the eruption of molar teeth that had not yet grown while you were younger due to space limitation.
When this time comes, you may experience swollen gums at the back of your mouth which usually is accompanied with a mild pain. The swollen gums may eventually break with time to allow the teeth to grow up.

Swollen Gums around Tooth Home Remedy

Swelling of the gums is a common problem. The tissue that forms the gums is thick, fibrous and full of blood vessels. Hence, when there is swelling, the gums may protrude or bulge out and appear red instead of their normal pink.
You can soothe the pain and swelling of gums with proper oral hygiene and home remedies. However, if you have swollen gums and symptoms persist for more than two weeks, see your dentist.
Home remedies Include:
Warm and Cold Compresses
Warm and cold compresses can provide quick relief for sore, swollen gums as they help reduce pain and swelling. You need to hold the compresses against your face, not directly on the swollen gums.
Salt Water
Salt is another effective remedy for swollen gums around tooth. It inhibits growth of bacteria in the mouth and prevents infections that may contribute to several oral health issues.

  • After brushing your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush, gently rub your gums with salt for a few seconds. Rinse it off with warm water. Do this once daily. After your gums are healthy again, do this 3 times a week to prevent recurrence.
  • Another option is to add ½ to 1 teaspoon of salt to a glass of lukewarm water and use it to rinse your mouth twice daily until the swelling subsides.

Clove Oil
Clove oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps in relieving inflammation of gums and reduces pain. Clove oil on cotton placed near the tooth for an hour will be helpful in reducing swelling.
Camphor
Wrapping camphor in cotton and placing near the wisdom tooth can cause numbing effect on the painful gums. You can place this till it dissolves in the mouth.
Oral Numbing Gel
These gels are available OTC for topical application on the affected area. The gel will provide relief from unbearable pain only temporarily.
Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is the very essential part of home care. Brush your teeth with soft toothbrush, especially those affected part. Flossing helps in removing food particles and medicated mouthwash helps in controlling infection.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can also help reduce swollen gums around tooth inflammation and pain. It can even help kill germs and fight oral problems. For oral health, use food grade, 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution only.

  • Mix equal parts of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution and water. Swish the solution around your gums and teeth for 30 seconds. Rinse it off with warm water.
  • Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with enough hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Rub this paste on your gums, wait 1 minute and then rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.

Turmeric
Turmeric is also a good home remedy for swollen gums around tooth. It contains curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. In addition, it prevents the spread of bacterial activity that causes several oral problems

  • Mix ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little water to make a paste
  • Apply this paste on the gums with your clean finger.
  • Leave it on for 5 minutes, then massage gently for 1 minute.
  • Rinse your mouth with warm water.
  • Repeat twice daily for 1 to 2 weeks.

Black Tea Bags
Black tea bags have tannins that can help reduce inflammation of the swollen gums around tooth. In addition, its antioxidant properties promote good oral health.

  • Steep a tea bag in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Remove it and allow it to cool to a bearable temperature.
  • Hold the tea bag on the affected area of your gums for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Rinse your mouth with a warm salt-water solution.
  • Repeat once daily for a few days.

Aloe Vera
Another effective remedy to treat swollen and bleeding gums is aloe vera. This herb has anti-inflammatory as well as antibacterial properties that can prevent the growth of plaque- causing bacteria in the mouth and soothe inflamed gums.

How to treat Swollen Gums

Some causes of gum pain, like medications and illness, will need to be treated with more comprehensive medical care. See your dentist for your regular check-up and he or she can refer you to this health care professional.
Or, if you just started taking a new medication and notice gum pain creep in, talk to your doctor about alternatives, or even altering your dosage.
Depending on the cause of your swollen gums around tooth, your dentist may prescribe oral rinses that help prevent gingivitis and reduce plaque. Your dentist may also recommend that you use a specific brand of toothpaste. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary.
If you have an extreme case of gingivitis, you may need surgery. One common treatment option is scaling and root planing. This is a procedure in which the dentist scrapes away diseased gums, dental plaque, and calculus, or tartar, on the roots of the teeth to allow the remaining gums to heal.
Eat Cold Foods
Provided the sensitive hasn’t spread to your teeth, cold foods can help reduce swelling and numb the pain of swollen gums. Therefore, try noshing on a freezer pop or eating a few frozen grapes to help calm the pain and swelling naturally.
Find Relief
There are a number of thing you can carry out, and a few things you should not do, to ease your discomfort and decrease the swelling in your gums.
What to do

  • Brush and floss regularly. If the root cause of your gum swelling is gingivitis, good oral hygiene is the first step to recovery.
  • Improve your diet. Add some extra fruits and vegetables to your diet, and avoid caffeinated beverages and sodas for a while.
  • Rinse your mouth with a salt water solution. This can ease the pain of inflamed gums.
  • See your dentist! Be sure to make an appointment if your gum irritation persists. A dental professional can determine the exact cause of the swelling, and help you improve the health of your teeth and gums faster.

Things not to do

  • Don’t continue to use toothpastes and mouthwashes that irritate your gums. Mouthwash that contains alcohol may irritate swollen gums. Change your toothpaste if you find it is hurting the affected area.
  • Don’t use alcohol and tobacco, since both those substances can irritate your gums further.
  • Don’t ignore the problem. Begin taking action to help reduce the swelling, and see a professional to ensure the swelling in your gums isn’t a symptom of something more serious.

References

  1. Causes of swelling on gums: http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/life-stages/adult-oral-care/article/what-causes-a-swollen-gum-around-one-tooth-1015
  2. Causes of swollen gums; http://www.healthline.com/symptom/swollen-gums

Pale Gums Causes: around Teeth, White, Light Pink, Treatment

This condition can be caused by anemia, because the body either lacks sufficient red blood cells or sufficient hemoglobin, it fails to receive sufficient oxygen, causing the skin to turn pale. The increased paleness is particularly prominent in the gums, nail beds and inner eyelids. Research has it that, the most obvious and common symptom of anemia is fatigue.

Why are my Gums Pale?

In more severe cases, the heartbeat increases noticeably. Other symptoms include irritability, low blood pressure, brittle nails, unusual food cravings and persistent headaches. While iron deficiency anemia is easily treated, but if left undiagnosed it can impair growth and development among infants, and severely impact quality of life in adults.
Treatment of pale gums consists of correcting the iron deficiency through a combination of diet and supplements. Side effects include black stools; rarely, people also suffer from abdominal discomfort. To prevent iron deficiency anemia, eating a nutritious diet such as, liver, fish, poultry and eggs are all excellent sources of iron, and should sometimes supplemented with citrus juice to help the body absorb the nutrients.
Vegetarians are more likely to suffer from iron deficiencies if proper care is not taken, as are menstruating or breastfeeding women. However, anemia can afflict either gender at any age. Lifestyle choices also play a significant factor; alcoholics and serious athletes are both at a higher risk than others.

What Causes Pale Gums

Though they may be a part of our body that we don’t look at with much depth, our gums are quite important to us. If you have ever had pale gums or seen them up close, they can be quite worrisome. Under normal conditions, our gums are usually a nice pale shade of pink when they are healthy.
However with certain health conditions or with improper hygiene, our gums can quickly become pale and even damaged.  More importantly, is there some deeper health condition going on that’s contributing to this.
Possible Causes of pale gums
Health Conditions
The most common cause for pale gums is anemia. Anemia affects a lot of people and they don’t even know it. This condition often doesn’t come out until a blood test is run and therefore many people don’t realize that they are suffering from this iron deficiency. One of the most obvious ways that anemia shows itself besides fatigue and dizziness is pale gums and it can really take you off guard.
Though we expect our gums to look a certain way, we are immediately concerned when they appear pale and off balance. If the pale gums are also accompanied by a pale or white tongue, then chances are you are suffering from anemia. You should get checked out by a doctor and receive treatment, and as a result the gums will likely regain their proper colour.
Gum disease
Though we often hear that gums get bright red or even bleed from this condition, they can go the other way, too. The other extreme for gum disease is that the gums become pale and lack any real colour to them at all. This is rather serious as it can cause some rather significant damage to the gums which can sometimes be irreversible.
If you have a history of gum disease or if you notice that the gums are just pale and lifeless, you need to make an appointment with your doctor immediately. If not treated properly, gum disease can wreak havoc on your oral hygiene and can even lead to other health conditions.
Improper Oral Hygiene
One final cause for pale gums can be poor oral hygiene. Though we tend to think of cavities and gingivitis as the result of poor oral hygiene, it can show itself in other forms sometimes. The gums that are pale can come about or can even be the result of a build-up of extreme tartar or plaque in between the gums and the teeth. If poor oral hygiene is the cause you need to really focus your efforts on improving it.
No matter what is causing your gums that are pale you want to look to natural products to help improve the appearance of your gums and create a balanced and healthy mouth. Looking for a natural toothpaste that has botanical peppermint oil as its base can really help to fight off bacteria. This will help to improve the appearance of your gums and ensure that they are no longer pale, making for the best oral hygiene possible.

Is Pale Gums Anemia Symptom?

The symptoms of anemia vary according to the type of anemia, the underlying cause, the severity and any underlying health problems, such as haemorrhaging, ulcers, menstrual problems, or cancer. Specific symptoms of those problems may be noticed first.
The body also has a remarkable ability to compensate for early anemia. If your anemia is mild or has developed over a long period of time, you may not notice any symptoms.
Symptoms common to many types of anemia include, Easy fatigue and loss of energy, unusually rapid heartbeat, particularly with exercise, shortness of breath and headache, particularly with exercise, difficulty concentrating, Pale skin or pale gums, Leg cramps, insomnia.
When to consult a Doctor for Anemia
Talk to your doctor if you have risk factors for anemia or notice any signs or symptoms of anemia including:

  • Persistent fatigue, breathlessness, rapid heart rate, pale skin, or any other symptoms of anemia; seek emergency care for any trouble breathing or change in your heart beat.
  • Poor diet or inadequate dietary intake of vitamins and minerals
  • Very heavy menstrual periods
  • Symptoms of an ulcer, gastritis, haemorrhoids, bloody or tarry stools, or colorectal cancer
  • Concern about environmental exposure to lead
  • A hereditary anemia runs in your family and you would like genetic counselling before having a child

For women considering pregnancy, your doctor will likely recommend that you begin taking supplements, especially folate, even before conception. These supplements benefit both mother and baby.

Pale Gums around Teeth Meaning

There are two types of diseases that can affect the gums: gingivitis and periodontitis. Together, gingivitis and periodontitis are referred to as gum disease or periodontal disease. Periodontal (gum) disease is an inflammation and infection that destroys the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, the periodontal ligaments, and the tooth sockets.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease, but without proper treatment it can lead to the more serious periodontitis. It is characterized by red and irritated pale gums.
Gingivitis is quite common, with many people having it to different strengths. Those at increased risk include anyone with poor dental hygiene, minorities, those who are less educated, smokers, uncontrolled diabetics, older adults, and pregnant women, those with decreased immunity, poor nutrition, substance abusers and those who do not seek the services of a dental professional often.
The National Institutes of Health warned that if it is not removed, plaque can turn into tartar, a hard deposit at the base of the tooth. Both plaque and tartar inflame gums and produce bacteria and toxins that cause gums to get infected with gingivitis.
Symptoms
Healthy gums are characterized by pale pink colour and firmness. Because gingivitis is usually not painful, many people do not realize that it is present or that they have a problem.
Symptoms include:

  • Bleeding gums, even with gentle brushing
  • Tender gums, especially when touched
  • Bright red, dusky red or purple-red gums
  • Swollen and pale gums
  • Mouth sores
  • Shiny gums
  • Bad breath

Prevention
The best way to prevent gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene. The brushing teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Teeth should be professionally cleaned by a dentist every six months. If symptoms are especially bad, dentists may recommend brushing and flossing after every meal and before bed.
They may also recommend plaque-removal devices, such as special toothbrushes, toothpicks and water irrigation tools. Prescribed anti-plaque and anti-tartar toothpastes and rinses can also help.

White Patches on Gums Causes

Leukoplakia appears as thick, white patches on your gums or on the insides of your cheeks. Although leukoplakia itself isn’t dangerous, it sometimes shows precancerous changes that can lead to mouth cancer. These patches can’t easily be scraped off.
The cause of leukoplakia is unknown, but tobacco, whether smoked, dipped or chewed, is considered to be the main culprit in its development. This condition can sometimes be serious. Although most leukoplakia patches are benign, a small percentage show early signs of cancer, and many cancers of the mouth occur next to areas of leukoplakia.
Symptoms
Leukoplakia can have various appearances. Changes usually occur on your gums, the insides of your cheeks, the bottom of your mouth and, sometimes, your tongue. Leukoplakia may appear as:

  • White or grayish patches that can’t be wiped away
  • Irregular or flat-textured areas and pale gums
  • Thickened or hardened areas
  • Raised, red lesions (erythroplakia), which are more likely to show precancerous changes

A type of leukoplakia called hairy leukoplakia primarily affects people whose immune systems have been weakened by medications or disease, especially HIV/AIDS. Hairy leukoplakia causes fuzzy, white patches that resemble folds or ridges on the sides of your tongue.
It’s often mistaken for oral thrush — an infection marked by creamy white patches on the area that extends from the back of your throat to the top of your oesophagus (pharynx) and the insides of the cheeks. Oral thrush also is common in people with HIV/AIDS.
Prevention
Most often, you can prevent leukoplakia by:

  • Avoiding all tobacco products.This is one of the best steps you can take for your overall health, as well as being one of the main ways to prevent leukoplakia. Talk to your doctor about methods to help you quit. If friends or family members continue to smoke or chew tobacco, encourage them to have frequent dental check-ups. Oral cancers are usually painless until fairly advanced.
  • Avoiding or limiting alcohol use.Alcohol is a factor in both leukoplakia and oral cancer. Combining alcohol and smoking may make it easier for the harmful chemicals in tobacco to penetrate the tissues in your mouth.
  • Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.These are rich in antioxidants such as beta carotene, which reduce the risk of leukoplakia by deactivating harmful oxygen molecules before they can damage tissues. Foods rich in beta carotene include dark yellow, orange, and green fruits and vegetables, including carrots, pumpkin, squash, cantaloupe and spinach.

What it mean when Gums are White and Sore

Painful, sore, white gums can be signs and symptoms of gingivitis or, more likely, periodontitis), which can arise due to a number of different causes, including poor oral hygiene with improper brushing or flossing. Inflammation of the gums may manifest as

  • Painful pale gums,
  • sensitivity,
  • redness,
  • swelling, and
  • Bleeding of the gums either after brushing or when otherwise irritated.

Gum disease can ultimately lead to receding gums and even damage to the bones of the jaw. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also increase the sensitivity of the gums, which may in some cases lead to soreness or pain. Painful white or pale gums can also arise due to localized sores on the gums, such as abscesses or aphthous ulcers.

Reason for Light Pink Gums around Teeth

Normal, healthy gums should be firmly attached to the teeth and underlying bone. They are pale pink in light-skinned people and brown, gray or mottled in people with darker complexions.
If you have gingivitis, your gums are inflamed, red and swollen. They will bleed easily and may be tender… If left unchecked, however, it can become severe.
People with poorly controlled diabetes and pregnant women are especially at risk. People taking oral contraceptives or systemic steroids are at increased risk of gingivitis. Certain prescription drugs — including anti-seizure medications and calcium channel blockers — can cause gum overgrowth and inflammation.

Healthy Gum color in Humans

Healthy gums should be firm to the touch and will be pink or coral in colour, but the exact shade can vary considerably from person to person. If you look closely you might notice they look slightly stippled or have an appearance like an orange peel. Another example of gum variation is African Americans often have darker gums.  This is not due to poor oral hygiene. It’s because of the melanin that also causes the skin to be darker.
Healthy ones are not pale gums, and will form a good seal at the gum margin so no bacteria are able to penetrate this area. You might notice a slight indentation or crevice at the gum margin, and this is called the sulcus. A healthy sulcus will have a depth of between zero and 3 mm and will not look infected or inflamed in any way.

Signs of Unhealthy Gums

They include the following:

  • Your gum tissue may appear darker in colour than before
  • Your gums might appear swollen, and they may feel tender or sore to the touch, or slightly squashy
  • You may notice blood on your toothbrush or that your gums begin to bleed when you flossthem
  • Your teeth could look longer than before as the infected and inflamed gums begin to recede due to the destruction of the gum tissues
  • You may develop bad breath due to build-up of bacteria and infection in your mouth

If you do notice any of these signs, then I suggest you make an appointment to visit your dentist, especially if you haven’t had a check-up in a while. This is because you could have gum disease, and this condition is far easier to treat if caught early.

How to Get Rid of White Gums

In almost all cases, gingivitis, or gum disease, is caused by improper cleaning of the teeth and gums. If proper teeth care is not effective, you can use these techniques to treat pale gum at home. Yet, it’s always best to see a dentist for a proper evaluation and course of treatment.
You need to note the following:
Know the symptoms. Gingivitis can progress through its early stages with few visible symptoms. When gingivitis worsens and advances into full-blown periodontitis, the symptoms are usually:
Understand how plaque causes problems. Food trapped under the gums combines with bacteria to create plaque, a toxic stew that irritates the gums and makes them bleed, white or pale in colour. Bleeding is your body’s way of trying to clear out the toxic material from your gums.
Know the non-surgical dental options. Most treatments for gum disease involve the dentist, although keeping the disease at bay in at least half of the problem. If you have mild gingivitis, consider non-surgical treatments.
Know the surgical dental options. Advanced gum disease or periodontitis may need to be attacked with dental surgery.
Help yourself. Regardless of what happens in the dental chair, it’s what happens in your bathroom that determines the success or failure of your gum disease treatment.
Use oral irrigation. It is an effective gum disease treatment that dental professionals recommend for daily plaque control. An oral irrigator is attached to a water source such as a sink tap or shower head. They flood the mouth and gum pockets with a jet of water under pressure to flush offending food particles and bacteria from below the gum line.
Home treatment
Know the limitations of home remedies
Many home remedies rely on anecdotal evidence, meaning someone’s personal experience, and not scientific evidence. Be aware that many home remedies have no scientific backing that they are effective in pale gums, or gum disease. This is why it is important to still visit your dentist and only combine home remedies with dentist-recommended advice. Do not use home remedies solely as a substitute for dental treatment.
Oral probiotics.
Oral probiotics contain good bacteria that assist in restoring the natural balance of bacteria in the mouth after use of oral antiseptics found in mouthwashes and toothpastes. This usually help much in white, pale gums and gum disease.
Some oral probiotics contain a bacteria called Lactobacillus reuteri, which is naturally found in breast milk and saliva. This bacteria is recommended especially during non-surgical therapy while maintaining other gingivitis treatments. Ask your doctor for a brand recommendation.
Try ubiquinone. Ubiquinone, also known as Coenzyme Q10, may help convert fats and sugars into energy. In addition to being used to treat diabetes and congestive heart failure, ubiquinone may be used to treat white, pale gums and gum disease.
The FDA, however, has not cleared ubiquinone as medically-appropriate to treat any disease, so ubiquinone should not be used solely to treat gum disease.
Try a peroxide oral rinse. An oral rinse that contains hydrogen peroxide, such as Colgate Peroxyl, is an antiseptic and antibacterial that may help treat infection and relieve inflammation when it comes in contact with an enzyme in the mouth. Use this rinse no more than twice a week for three weeks in a row as it can cause tooth sensitivity
Use corsodyl spray. Corsodyl spray is a powerful spray that contains chlorhexidine gluconate, which has antibacterial and antiplaque properties. This is very helpful in handling gums issues ranging from pale gums, gums disease etc. Corsodyl spray may be used to treat any pain or discomfort associated with mouth ulcers, inflammation and infections of the mouth. Corsodyl spray can be used when brushing the teeth becomes difficult and/or painful, such as after surgery. Be sure to keep spray out of ears and eyes.
Try Gengigel gel. This gel contains hyaluronic acid, which is naturally found in the body and may be used to heal certain wounds and stimulate the production of new tissue. For best results, apply at night before going to sleep.
More references

  1. Causes of pale gums in humans: https://www.reference.com/health/causes-pale-gums-humans-fba3ed622aebd62d
  2. Possible causes of pale gums: http://www.oramd.co.uk/palegums/possible-causes-for-pale-gums.html
  3. Understanding anemia symptoms: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/understanding-anemia-symptoms
  4. Gingivitis and periodontitis symptoms: http://www.livescience.com/44153-gingivitis-gum-disease.html
  5. Leukoplakia symptoms: http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/mouth-sores-and-infections/article/leukoplakia

Infected Gums Causes: Home Remedies, Symptoms, Treatment

Since serious gum infections are not extremely common, they can lead to major issues if not treated in a timely manner. While most of us aspire to keep our teeth and gums healthy, your gums can be prone to gum infection if not cared for properly. Infection occurs when germs or bacteria enter a susceptible site in the body and multiply, resulting in disease.
In your mouth, this can occur when bad bacteria multiply and congregate within the space between your gums and your teeth called the sulcus. If the bacteria are not removed, over time they can cause tissue breakdown and the formation of periodontal pockets and infections.

Link between gum disease and infected gums

Approximately 50 percent of adult Americans have gingivitis, an early and mild form of gum disease. However, only 5 to 15 percent of Americans have the more serious and advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis. That’s because most people who visit their dentist regularly will find out about gum disease and treat it before it get more serious.
Periodontitis affects the area of your mouth just below the gum line, in the v-shaped crevice between your tooth and gums, known as the sulcus. This impacts the attachment of your tooth and causes the nearby tissue to break down. Once the tissue is damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket that can store bacteria and lead to gum infection.

How can you tell if your gums are infected?

When the inside of your mouth gets hurt or irritated, bacteria may enter and cause an infection. Sometimes you will see a painful swelling filled with pus. Also, the area will get more swollen and painful. This is known as an abscess, which forms a barrier around the infection. This is one way that your body tries to keep a bacterial infection from spreading.
Abscesses can form very quickly. Sometimes they form only one or two days after the infection starts. There are two types of abscesses:

  • A gum abscess (periodontal abscess) usually is caused by an infection in the space between the tooth and gum. The infection may occur after food gets trapped between the gum and tooth. In people with severe periodontal disease, bacteria can build up under the gum and in the bone.
  • A tooth-related abscess (periapical abscess) occurs inside the tooth. This happens when the tooth’s nerve is dead or dying. This type of abscess shows up at the tip of the tooth’s root. Then it spreads to the surrounding bone.

Sometimes the infection causes little or no pain. If an abscess is not treated, the infection can last for months or even years. It will not go away on its own, so it’s important not to ignore the symptoms.

What causes infected gums?

Gingivitis
The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become. The bacteria cause inflammation of the gums that is called “gingivitis.” In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Periodontitis
When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis, inflammation around the tooth. In periodontitis, infected gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line.
Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.

Risk Factors

  •  Need another reason to quit smoking? Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of gum disease. Additionally, smoking can lower the chances for successful treatment.
  • Hormonal changes in girls/women.These changes can make gums more sensitive and make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
  • People with diabetes are at higher risk for developing infections, including gum disease.
  • Other illnesses and their treatments.Diseases such as AIDS and its treatments can also negatively affect the health of gums, as can treatments for cancer.
  • There are hundreds of prescription and over the counter medications that can reduce the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on the mouth. Without enough saliva, the mouth is vulnerable to infected gums disease. And some medicines can cause abnormal overgrowth of the gum tissue; this can make it difficult to keep teeth and gums clean.
  • Genetic susceptibility.Some people are more prone to severe gum disease than others.

Who gets gum disease?

Those don’t show signs of gum disease until they are in their 30s or 40s. Men are more likely to have infected gums than women. Although teenagers rarely develop periodontitis, they can develop gingivitis, the milder form of gum disease. Most commonly, gum disease develops when plaque is allowed to build up along and under the gum line.

Infected Gums Symptoms

Bumps on gums
Infected gums symptoms

Gum disease may progress painlessly, producing few obvious signs, even in the late stages of the disease. Although the symptoms of periodontal disease often are subtle, the condition is not entirely without warning signs.

How do I know if I have gum disease?

Certain symptoms may point to some form of the disease. The symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing
  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
  • Receding gums
  • Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Changes in the way teeth fit together upon biting down, or in the fit of partial dentures.
  • Tender or bleeding gums
  • Painful chewing
  • Sensitive teeth
  • longer appearing teeth

Any of these symptoms of infected gums may be a sign of a serious problem, which should be checked by a dentist. At your dental visit the dentist or hygienist should:

  • Ask about your medical history to identify underlying conditions or risk factors (such as smoking) that may contribute to gum disease.
  • Examine your gums and note any signs of inflammation.
  • Use a tiny ruler called a “probe” to check for and measure any pockets. In a healthy mouth, the depth of these pockets is usually between 1 and 3 millimetres. This test for pocket depth is usually painless.

The dentist or hygienist may also:

  • Take an x-ray to see whether there is any bone loss.
  • Refer you to a periodontist; experts in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease and may provide you with treatment options that are not offered by your dentist.

Even if you don’t notice any symptoms, you may still have some degree of gum disease. In some people, gum disease may affect only certain teeth, such as the molars. Only a dentist or a periodontist can recognize and determine the progression of gum disease.

Signs of Gum Cancer

Your infected gums feel strange, but not enough for you to know what the problem is. Maybe they’re irritated, they bleed when you brush or floss or you’ve noticed a white spot on the surface itself. There are a number of issues that can affect your gums, not necessarily limited to gingivitis. Although gum disease is the more common of the two affecting slightly more than 47 percent of all adults, oral cancer is also a legitimate possibility.
Gum cancer is even less common, affecting about 39,500 people in the U.S. this year as estimated by the American Cancer Society. Knowing how to tell the difference and when to see your dentist will help you keep your mouth healthy in spite of this uncomfortable condition.

Signs of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can affect any area of your mouth, from the lips to the gums and from the inner cheek tissue to the tongue. It is easily confused with gum disease. Nonetheless, the former is characterized by patches or irregular growths on the gums. These are known as erythroleukoplakia when they are red and white, leukoplakia when they are white or erythroplakia when they are red.

  • Leukoplakia can be benign, whereas erythroleukoplakia and erythroplakia are more likely to be malignant. If you see any unusual growths on the surface of your infected gums, and they don’t clear up on their own after two weeks, scheduling an appointment with a dentist to have him or her, a biopsy of the area.

Signs of Gingivitis

The signs of gingivitis are quite different from the signs of oral or gum cancer, but there are two things these conditions have in common:

  • In the early stages, neither tend to be painful. Areas of redness can be connected to either cancer or gingivitis, but the redness can go unnoticed between the two. When a person has gingivitis, his gums are usually dusky red, rather than a light pink.
  • Secondly, gingivitis can make the gums more likely to bleed, become puffy or feel as tender to the touch as a cancerous gum line.

A deep cleaning at your dentist’s office, combined with a commitment to taking care of your teeth and gums at home, can help reverse gingivitis and prevent it from developing into a more severe form of periodontal disease.

Link Between gingivitis and oral cancer?

Having gingivitis shouldn’t necessarily worry you that it will develop into cancer, but there is some degree of connection between having gum disease and contracting cancer – not limited to oral cancer. Research has it that, men with gum disease carried a 14 percent higher risk for cancer than men without it.
There may be a greater risk for lung or pancreatic cancer in certain circumstances, as well. The exact reason for the connection isn’t quite clear, but it does highlight the importance of taking care of your mouth in the interest of the rest of your body.
What to Do

  • The best way to reduce your risk for developing gingivitis, infected gums, gum cancer or another type of oral cancer is to see your dentist on a regular basis for check-ups. He can spot and diagnose any problems before they become bigger problems.
  • Just as important is good oral care at home, which includes brushing twice a day, using a toothpaste and flossing at least once a day – all of which can minimize your chances of developing gingivitis.
  • Avoiding cigarettes and tobacco products, and drinking only in moderation, can also help you cut your risk for developing an oral cancer that involves the gums.

Gingivitis and gum cancer are two very different conditions, but both of which you want to take seriously. Protect your mouth by seeing a dentist regularly.

Gum Ball on gums in Mouth

The presence of a lump, or mass, on the gums can be caused by several different conditions. It may be felt as a bump or hard or soft lump anywhere on the gums. An infection, such as a bacterial infection or localized abscess, can appear as a mass on the gums. Oral cancer or tumors of the teeth or jaw are rarer causes of a mass on the gums.
A cyst of the jaw is also a possible cause of gum balls or mass on the gums. Traumatic injuries and infected gum canker sores are some of the more common causes of a mass on the gums. Sometimes, the hormonal changes of pregnancy can cause a small lump or bump to form near the gum line, known as a granuloma gravidarum.

What causes gumballs in Mouth

Gum balls can sometimes be an allergic reaction to something you ate. For example, there are people who cannot eat spearmint. The spearmint causes her to develop gum balls in her mouth. Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the gum ball and gargle with warm salt water.

Gum Infection Home Remedies

Treating infected gums isn’t especially difficult. In fact, there are numerous home remedies for gum disease you can utilize right here. But you don’t really have to suffer from bleeding, swollen, irritated gums; there are certainly other options when it comes to invasive dental treatments meant to treat periodontal disease.
Natural home remedies for infected gums
Here are natural home remedies for gum disease that will make your dentists’ head spin at your next appointment:
Oil Pulling
This method has been raved about not only for curing swollen, red gums, but even reversing gum disease with bone loss. It ‘pulls’ toxins right out of your mouth and gums. It removes plaque build-up and has been studied in several to be very effective. Just be sure to use 100% organic oil sesame, olive, or coconut is best because you wouldn’t want to be swishing pesticide-laden oils around in your mouth for several minutes at a time.
Sage Leaf Decoction
This is an old remedy for gingivitis and gum disease. All you need to do is boil around 50 fresh organic sage leaves in some distilled water and then gargle the decoction several times a day as well as use it like a mouthwash. You can also make a sage tea and drink it throughout the day. Sage has huge amounts of antioxidants and it also contains it anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Garlic and Turmeric Paste for infected gums
Use garlic cloves on irritated gums, or simply make a garlic & turmeric paste to use like toothpaste, then rinse after it has been in your mouth for several minutes. Both of these naturally-occurring foods are full of antibacterial properties, and turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory agent.
Mustard Oil
This method has been used for hundreds of years to combat bad dental hygiene. It destroys bacteria in the mouth and heals the gums very fast. It also has pain-reducing qualities along with being anti-microbial and anti-bacterial.
Aloe Vera Gel 
Best when it comes straight form the plant, aloe vera is a great anti-inflammatory that is especially helpful if your gums are red and inflamed.
Eat more fruits and vegetables
Not only do fruits and vegetables with skins help clean the teeth, but the antioxidants in both fruits and vegetables also prevent plaque build-up in the mouth.

Gum Infection Treatment over the Counter

Antimicrobial therapy is the use of chemicals to kill or slow down the growth of bacteria that cause periodontal disease. The two most common forms of this therapy are antiseptics and antibiotics. Antiseptics are found in mouth rinses. They usually are used to help prevent periodontal disease.
Antibiotics are used to kill specific bacteria. They are placed under the gums or given as pills to treat infected gums. Antibiotic pills typically are given only for acute (sudden and short-term) infections. Acute and long-term (chronic) gum infections require a procedure called scaling and root planning. Some people also may need periodontal surgery.
One of the newest ways to kill bacteria is laser therapy. Dentists now use lasers to kill bacteria in the gum pockets around teeth. This treatment also seems to stimulate healing.
What It’s Used For
Periodontal disease is caused by specific types of bacteria. Killing these bacteria can help to prevent and treat the disease.
Antiseptics
Bacteria can grow and form clusters or colonies on the tongue and tonsils and in the saliva. Mouth rinses can control the excess growth of bacteria. The goal is to prevent them from causing disease. These rinses contain:

  • Alcohol
  • Chlorhexidine
  • Povodine iodine
  • 1% sodium hypo-chloride

Rinses also can be used at home to wash out the pockets around the teeth with irrigation devices.
Antibiotics for infected gums
Dentists often prescribe antibiotics to treat an acute gum infection called an abscess. A periodontist also may use antibiotics for some cases of gum disease that are hard to treat. They include:

  • Necrotizing lacerative gingivitis a rare form of periodontal disease that becomes severe very quickly
  • Severe forms of periodontitis (advanced gum disease)
  • Periodontal disease that has not improved with other types of treatment
  • Periodontal disease in people who have weakened immune systems

The type of antibiotic prescribed depends upon the exact type of the bacteria. Several antibiotics have been used to treat aggressive periodontal disease.
Most of the time, the first treatment for periodontal disease is scaling and root planning. This combined approach can successfully treat many forms of periodontal disease.
How It’s Done
Your dentist may prescribe a specific antiseptic rinse. You can buy some rinses over the counter. You do not need a prescription for them.
If you are given antibiotics in oral (pill) form, you will take them for 7 to 10 days.
Your dentist also can place an antibiotic directly into the affected parts of your mouth. This is called local therapy. It can take several forms, including:

  • Gel— your dentist injects a gel containing doxycycline under your gums. The area is sealed and covered with a special bandage called a periodontal pack. After 7 to 10 days, your dentist removes the bandage and any remaining gel.
  • Powder— your dentist squirts a powder containing minocycline under your gums. The powder dissolves over three weeks.

If your dentist owns a dental laser, it will be used after root planning and scaling. The dentist places the laser tip in the space between your tooth and gum, then moves it around the entire tooth. This process begins from the base of each pocket. The dentist can treat your whole mouth at one time. This will eliminate the bacteria in the pockets throughout your mouth.
More references

  1. Mouth abscess: http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/dental-emergencies-and-sports-safety/article/abscess
  2. Gingivitis and periodontal disease: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gingivitis-periodontal-disease#1

Black Spot on Gums Causes: between Tooth,How to Get Rid

This type of a condition can affect your appearance and be embarrassing, but they are not generally a cause for concern and there are many potential causes. However they are still worth investigating as in some cases they may be a sign of oral malignant melanoma which is a form of oral cancer and can be fatal. Here we will look at a range of potential causes of black gums, and how you can treat them to get them back to their natural pinkish color.

What does it mean when you have Black Spot on your Gums

Dark spots on your gums can be signs of harmless or deadly conditions, depending on its nature. Some oral cancers manifest as black spots in their early stages.
Serious gum disease can also lead to the existence of dark spots or formations on your teeth and gums. Always consult your dentist if you notice spots on your gums for a thorough diagnosis.

What could be the cause of black spot on gums?

Calculus
This is a hard, calcified deposit formed from hardened dental plaque, oral debris, saliva and minerals. This hard residue forms on and under the gum line, between the surface of teeth and the gum tissue. Its colour can range from yellow to black. These deposits can give the appearance of spots on the gums and are an indication of dental hygienic habits and conditions that lead to gum disease.
Proper daily flossing will prevent its build-up. If you already have calculus along your gum line, see your dentist right away. Your dentist can remove excessive calculus deposits and assess the severity of your gum disease.
Amalgam Tattoos
If you have fillings, crowns or dentures, you may develop amalgam tattoos. They are grey, blue or black spot on gums that occur when small particles of amalgam become embedded within the oral membranes. These spots remain the same size and have a regular, round and flat appearance. Even though these spots pose no dangers, certain oral cancers in their early stages resemble amalgam tattoos hence, any new spots or discoloration should be examined right away.
Malignant Melanoma
It is usually rare inside of the mouth, but in its oral form it is most often fatal. Oral melanoma begins as a small black spot on gums or anywhere within the interior of the mouth. In its early stages, it may resemble an amalgam tattoo. As the cancer progresses, its colour may be tan, dark brown or black mixed with red or grey. Its size will increase as it encompasses more of the mouth and its shape will change irregularly as it grows.
Bruises
As the gums are darker than the rest of our bodies, bruises there can appear darker too. Small bruises on the gums could be the result of impact to the face or brushing too hard across them.
Hyper-Pigmentation
Sometimes black spot on gum develop simply as a result of too much pigment. This can be a genetically inherited trait, or it can develop on its own. If this is the case however then it is not a cause for concern and if you wish to have them removed they can be with laser treatment. This is more common in those with already dark skin and the black spot on gums themselves are sometimes called ‘melanin spots’ – melanin being the name of the natural pigment.
Hardened Plaque
In some cases hardened plaque attached to the gums can cause dark patches. This hardened black spot on gum is also known as tartar and can also appear in many other colours. Make sure to clean your teeth and gums thoroughly and regularly to avoid this, and to visit a dentist to have it removed if it does develop once it has appeared it can’t be removed by regular brushing or glossing, as it can also cause bad breath.
Cigarettes and Medication
Some people may have discoloured gums from smoking cigarettes or taking certain medications such as minocycline, tricyclic antidepressants, or metal-based crown fillings. If you notice gum discoloration after you start taking a new medication, consult your doctor for possible alternatives.
Disease & Conditions
There are also other reasons for gum discoloration or black spot on gums that cause a higher concern. First is acute necrotizing periodontal disease, also referred to as black gum disease. This black discoloration of the gums is due to dead tissue, or necrosis. This is a serious health issue, with symptoms that can also include bleeding gums, strong pain, and a foul smelling mouth.
Along with improper oral care, the causes of this disease can include stress, smoking, viral infections, and HIV. If left untreated, the disease can spread to your cartilage and then bone, causing very serious health concerns. You can treat acute necrotizing periodontal disease with antibiotics or by surgically removing the dead tissue.
Warning
Those black spots on gums can also be caused by serious conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. If you have a rash on other areas of your body in addition to dark spots on your gums, seek medical attention without hesitating.

Can you get Dark Spots on Gums from Smoking?

Smoker’s melanosis is seen with the naked eye as a brown to black pigmentation of the oral tissue i.e. the gums, cheeks or palate as well as in larynx. It is most often seen in the lower labial gingiva of tobacco users.
However, it is also frequently reported from genetically melanin-pigmented inhabitants and besides cigarette and pipe smokers also in chutta, bidi users and reverse smokers.
The brown to black colour is melanin. In skin, melanin prevents harmful UV-light to reach deeper, sensible parts of the tissue.
If UV-light penetrates deep, some of the toxic substances due to the UV-light damage to the cells, are bound to melanin in the epithelial cells and travel with the ageing cells to the skin surface, where they are expelled from the tissue surface.
In this way the melanocytes and keratinocytes together protect the tissue with melanin serving as a toxic defence- and cleaning agent.
In tobacco-users the melanocytes are stimulated to produce melanin granules and to distribute them out to the surrounding epithelial cells for further transport to the mucosal surface, like the mechanism in melanin-pigmented skin.
How smoking Causes black spot on gums 
Smoking or the use of nicotine-containing drugs is the cause to Smoker’s melanosis. Also tar-components are known to stimulate melanocytes to melanin production, and other unknown toxic agents in tobacco may also be the cause.
These chemical agents have a polycyclic, chain-like structure. Environmental tobacco smoke from parents is causing smoker’s melanosis in their children. Swedish snuff causes a small elevation of oral melanin pigmented individuals from 3.0% to 4.7%. Nicotine tablets have shown to stimulate to melanin pigmentation of the oral mucosa.
Treatment and prognosis
The lesion usually disappears in between 3 months to 3 years in those who stop smoking. Smoker’s melanosis is a benign, normal physiological reaction, and does not develop into cancer. If it does not disappear, however, a biopsy can verify the diagnosis.
If Smoker’s melanosis is destroyed by excessive smoking resulting in black spot on gums, as in the hard palate of reverse smokers, who smoke with the glowing part of the cigarette inside the mouth for different reasons, a pale de-pigmented surface is first seen, indicating the loss of the protecting melanin.
Then a red inflammation sometimes occurs and cancer development may follow. In reverse smokers it is important to inspect regularly the areas with smoker’s melanosis to detect any melanin destruction, in order to stop smoking in time and thus prevent a cancer to develop.

Black Spot on Gums near Tooth

This condition on gums can be caused by acute necrotizing periodontal disease, bruises, hyper pigmentation, hardened plaque (near teeth), amalgam tattoos (caused when tiny pieces from a filling or cap wedge themselves into the gums), freckles, a varicose vein, a melanoma, smoking, and certain medications such as minocycline, antimalarial agents, or tricyclic antidepressants
In this case, it is very important to see your dentist as your tooth may at the risk of decaying or the whole jaw bone may be in problems. A black spot on gum that appear near a tooth may be a sign that your tooth is decaying or have some infections.

Black Spot on Gum near Wisdom Tooth

Your wisdom teeth (third molars) usually start to erupt during late adolescence. Sometimes, there is not enough room for them, and they come in partially or not at all. This condition can lead to pericoronitis, inflammation of the gum surrounding the tooth. When only part of the tooth has erupted into the mouth, it can create a flap of gum tissue that easily holds food particles and debris and is a hotbed for bacteria.
Pericoronitis also can occur around a wisdom tooth that has not erupted at all and is still under the gums, causing a black spot to emerge.
Symptoms include:

  • Painful, swollen gum tissue in the area of the affected tooth, which can make it difficult to bite down comfortably without catching the swollen tissue between your teeth
  • A bad smell or taste in the mouth
  • Discharge of pus from the gum near the tooth
  • Black spot on gum

More serious symptoms include:

  • Swollen lymph nodes under your chin (the submandibular nodes)
  • Muscle spasms in the jaw
  • Swelling on the affected side of the face

Reasons for Black Spot on Gums Painful

When you think of a great set of teeth and gums, you probably imagine pearly white teeth and healthy pink gums. So if you happen to notice that your gums have turned black, grey, or white, or with a black spot to name it, you may be quite concerned.
While some gum discoloration is a natural occurrence, other discoloration can be hazardous to your health and require serious attention. These may be seen with a symptom of much pain from the gum and in severe cases the general body. To some people, any oral condition is accompanied with swelling of the cheek on the affected side.

How to get rid of Dark Spots on gums

Gums have an essential role to play for enhancing our smile. They make our overall appearance beautiful and we all wish to have pink and healthy gums. Slightly darkening of gums tends to make us self-conscious about our face. Many a time, poor oral care and bad lifestyle leads to these conditions.
There are numerous factors which lead to darkening of gums. Knowing the condition behind the black spot on gum is the first step towards healing.
Sometimes, our gums turn greyish because of the accidental implantation of the silver amalgam in our gum tissue while we restore or extract teeth.  These patches are spotted by black gums around the crown, filling and dentures, and are called ‘amalgamation tattoos’ by the doctors.
These conditions have to be treated by an oral care specialist. Some of the changes in lifestyle that you’d be asked to make would include:

  • Brushing and flossing properly. At least twice a day or thrice.
  • Gargling with a mouthwash or gargling with lukewarm water added with salt. To repeat twice a day.
  • Quitting smoking or chewing tobacco
  • Following a diet which have proper vitamins, minerals and other necessary nutrients
  • Adopting method to reduce stress, for instance, yoga and meditation
  • Going to the dentist for check-ups and clean-ups at regularly intervals

How to make gums pink?

Getting pinker gums mean that you are promoting improved oral hygiene. There are some regular methods to follow in your daily routine which helps you get and maintain pink gums:
Toothpaste
You have to be wise enough to choose proper toothpaste, which is specifically designed to help you improve your gums. You might have to pay some extra bucks but you would get the desired results.
Toothbrush
Primarily, buy a toothbrush, which has American Dental Association’s seal on the package. This should be followed by some more aspects because:

  • You have to buy a toothbrush which can be easily maneuvered through your mouth to avoid getting a black spot on gums.
  • You have to avoid brushes with hard bristled, as they can increase black spot on gums further
  • You have to get a soft to medium bristled toothbrush
  • You have to make sure that the bristles have rounded tips
  • You could even opt for an electric toothbrush as they are better than the regular ones. They have the ‘rotation oscillation’ facility, which makes the bristles move back and forth at a same pack.

Brush before meals
The conventional practice has taught us to brush after meals, but dentist suggest the opposite. They are concerned with removing the plaque which is formed on every tooth and not on food removal which we seemed to stress more on.
Use a mouthwash
Mouthwash is important because this clean-up the entire mouth and not only the teeth. They reduce bad breath and keep your tongue clean. Choose a product sealed by American Dental Association. While buying, make sure that it is formulated for gum health, and not over cosmetic for fresher breath. Also, avoid the mouthwashes with alcohol content, as they dry the skin out.
Don’t use a mouthwash immediately after brushing. This could lessen some benefits of brushing teeth hence not efficiently cabbing that black spot on gums. Use it before brushing or 1 hour after brushing.
Regular check-ups
Even if you decide to promote oral care at home, you have to keep certain things in mind, like removing plaque build-up, whitening teeth, etc. You might keep a periodical check-up routine with a dentist who would tell you the developed conditions of your oral care.
How often you’d meet a doctor would be on your own needs are preference, but having your teeth checked up once a year is necessary. Your dentist would let you know about further check-ups.

Home remedies for black spot on gums

Green tea; It is rich in antioxidants and is known to be the elixir of healthcare. Green tea is known to treat numerous diseases. It helps you reduce darkening of gums, inflammation of gum and also destroys the bacteria which is formulated in our mouth, and is the cause of periodontal issues. Have a cup of green tea every morning to promote stronger teeth.
Aloe vera
It is famous for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Take fresh gel from aloe vera plant for brushing your teeth. Simply take the gel and apply on your teeth. After that, take a toothbrush and spread the gel while you brush it all over. This would prevent receding of gums and heal infections, if any.
Coconut oil
It is antimicrobial in nature. It is another amazing remedy for treating our gums from receding and also the causes behind it. Take virgin coconut oil to swish your mouth after brushing teeth. It acts like a layer of protection again diseases which are caused by bacteria. This also helps you get rid of the food particles which stick in-between two teeth.
Lemon oil
It is great in treatment of black spot on gums. Has antiseptic qualities which act like an amazing antibacterial agent. Though, direct application of lemon oil isn’t recommended as it can lead to enamel corrosion. You can prepare lemon oil with added lemon with olive oil and let it blend well for a few weeks. This oil can then be used for swishing your mouth every morning. It’ll kill bacteria and prevent gums from receding. Lemon also promotes formation of tissues which can replace the damaged once.
Eucalyptus
This is an essential oil which kills germs from mouth and reduces gum diseases and tooth decay. It is anti-inflammatory in nature and reduces swelling of gums too. Take some of the oil and add water to dilute. Massage the content on your gums and repeat daily. Rinse off with water and promote growth of tissues.
Clove
Cloves act as an essential ingredient to improve oral care. Clove oil has antiseptic, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties which stimulates the growth and repairs the damaged tissues. They act as a powerful ingredient to stop the bacterial action with frequent usage. Massage teeth with clove oil every day for improved gums.
Tea tree oil
 It can be diluted and then used for swishing of mouth. It prevents gums from receding and root damage. The oil is very strong, and cannot be used with diluting. The tea-tree oil is anti-fungal and microbial which kills the germs and reduces plaques on teeth and between teeth and gums.
Rose vinegar
Good for black spot on gums. It helps to strengthen gums and can be used for rinsing the mouth. To make this you need to add 3 ounces of rose petals and then soak them in red wine vinegar. Let the water steep for a week and then strain it. You could also add 1 tablespoon of rose vinegar to 1 cup of warm water for rinsing your mouth every day.
Salt
Using salt for oral hygiene is a quick and easy hack to get whiter teeth and better looking gums. Salt is known to feel gum diseases at bay and make them look healthier. You can also prevent gum pain with the usage of this available home ingredient.
Consume calcium
Calcium content is very important for better oral health. It makes your bones stronger and your teeth whiter. If you drink orange juice, consume yogurt, cheese, broccoli, etc. you will not have to take supplements for calcium. Vitamin D is another add on which is require for oral health. If you consume vitamin B, it will protect gums and teeth from breaking and bleeding. Other mineral good for dental hygiene is, copper, zinc, iron, potassium and iodine.
More references

  1. Black dots on gums: https://www.reference.com/health/black-dot-gums-cf825a08b8659e4a#
  2. What causes dark spots on human gums: http://www.livestrong.com/article/148040-what-causes-dark-spots-on-human-gums/
  3. Smoker’s melanosis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoker’s_melanosis
  4. Causes of black spot on human gum near tooth: https://www.quora.com/What-causes-a-black-spot-on-a-human-gum-near-a-tooth

Bleeding Gums Causes: when Brushing, Toothpaste, Treatment

Bleeding gums are caused by inadequate plaque removal. Plaque contains germs which attack the healthy tissue around the teeth, causing the gums to become inflamed and irritated, which may cause them to bleed when brushing or flossing. This kind of condition is known as Gingivitis and is the first stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is usually a painless condition and bleeding gums may be the only symptom.
Some other signs may include: swollen, red or tender gums; persistent bad breath or taste; teeth that are loose; and a change in the way your teeth fit when you bite. At this stage the disease can be treated and completely reversed. So it is important not to ignore your bleeding gums.

Plaque that is not removed from bleeding gums will eventually cause the gums to separate and recede from the teeth. Once your gums begin to recede, pockets can form between the teeth and gums allowing germs to get trapped inside these pockets, attacking the gums and bone supporting the teeth.
Plaque will eventually harden into tartar. At this point, Gingivitis has progressed into the more serious condition called Periodontitis.

Effects of Bleeding Gums to overall health

Bleeding gums causes gum Disease as a more serious conditions including diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancer. Although in rare cases, even men’s sexual health can be affected by gum disease. Scientists believe that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the association between gum disease and these other conditions.
Bleeding gums causes are most often a sign of gum disease, but can also point to a number of other health problems as well. Occasional bleeding of the gums can be the result of brushing your teeth too vigorously or wearing dentures that don’t fit correctly. Frequent episodes of gum bleeding, however, can indicate more serious conditions, such as:

  • periodontitis (an advanced form of gum disease)
  • leukaemia (cancer of the blood)
  • vitamin deficiency
  • lack of clotting cells (platelets)

Why are Bleeding Gums a Sign of?

Bleeding of the gums can be as a sign that you have or may develop gum disease as we discussed earlier. Ongoing gum bleeding may be due to plaque buildup on the teeth. It can also be a sign of a serious medical condition. For some people, even if they are die- hard flossers, chances are that they may see an occasional drop or two of blood post string- session.
If your gums are bleeding, know that it’s not a normal thing, not even when you have your teeth prophessionally cleaned. If your gums are bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth, you may be having periodontal, which is commonly known as gum disease. This gum disease is a contagious bacterial infection that can wreak havoc in your health. It can destroy gums, erode your jawbone, and lead to tooth loss.
There are two fronts to bleeding gums;

  • The plague- which is a biofilm of bacteria and its waste products which first create the irritation to the gum tissue.
  • Body reaction to that wounding, the inflammatory response.

When all these two are put together and you have got inflamed, bleeding gums. The longer you have inflammation, the more at risk you are for all kinds of systemic illnesses, ranging from allergies to cancer.

What do Bleeding Gums Mean? Causes

Bleeding gums are most often a sign of disease of the gum, but can also point to a number of other health problems as well. However, bleeding of the gums can be the result of brushing your teeth too vigorously or wearing dentures that don’t fit correctly.

Dental Conditions that Cause Bleeding Gums

Dental care issues are the primary cause of bleeding gums. Gingivitis or inflammation of the gums and periodontitis make your gums sensitive and more prone to bleeding.
Gingivitis
A number of us may develop gingivitis when plaque remains on the gum line for too long. Plaque refers to the debris and bacteria that stick to your teeth. Brushing your teeth removes plaque and can prevent you from developing cavities, also known as dental caries. Plaque may stay on your gum line, however, if you don’t brush and floss properly. The accumulation of plaque near your gums can cause gingivitis.
Symptoms of gingivitis include:

  • puffy gums
  • soreness in the mouth and around the gums
  • bleeding gums

Periodontitis
Periodontal disease, or periodontitis, can occur when gingivitis continues to an advanced stage. Periodontal is the infection of the gums, jawbone, and supportive tissues that connect your teeth and gums. Periodontitis can cause your teeth to loosen or fall out.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Bleeding gum causes can also be deficiencies of vitamins C and K which cause gums to bleed easily. However, vitamin deficiencies aren’t often seen in people who live in developed countries, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. This is because healthy children and adults living in developed areas of the world have access to vitamins C and K through food and supplements.
Talk to your dentist to check your levels of vitamins C and K if you encounter bleeding gums that aren’t caused by improper dental care. Follow a diet that contains both of these nutrients to ensure that you’re getting the vitamins you need to stay healthy.
Foods rich in vitamin C include:

  • citrus fruits and juices,
  • broccoli, strawberries,
  • tomatoes, potatoes, bell peppers

Foods rich in vitamin K include:

  • Watercress, kale, spinach
  • Swiss chard
  • lettuce
  • mustard greens
  • soybeans
  • canola oil
  • olive oil

Other Causes of Bleeding Gums
People who wear dentures also may experience bleeding of the gums from time to time. This is more likely when the dentures are too small or fit too tightly. Consult your dentist or orthodontist if dentures or other oral appliances are causing your gums to bleed. You may need to take new impressions to create a better-fitting mouthpiece.
Pregnancy
This is also another common cause of gum bleeding in women. The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can cause the gums to become more sensitive.
Bleeding disorders
These kind of conditions such as haemophilia and leukaemia, can also increase your chance of bleeding gums. Your gums might bleed more often if you take blood-thinning medications. Drugs in this class include warfarin, aspirin, and heparin.
More other bleeding gum causes are:
Age: The incidence of gum disease increases with age. 50% of adults 30 years or older and 70% of those over 65 have gum disease.
Stress: Stress is linked to many serious conditions, including periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases.
Medications: Some prescription medications can increase your risk of gum disease such as anti-depressants, certain heart medications and oral contraceptives. Check with your doctor or dentist to learn if your medication can affect your gums.
Genetics: Some of us are just predisposed to get gum disease. If you think this applies to you, your dentist can perform a simple genetic test to determine your risk.
Other risk factors:

  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Poor nutrition
  • Clenching or grinding teeth
  • Tobacco use

Bleeding Gums without Brushing

It is possible that gingivitis could be the cause of bleeding gums without brushing. However, bleeding of the gums without any trauma could represent a potentially serious underlying disorder and should be evaluated by your primary care physician. Gingivitis more typically causes bleeding on the toothbrush with even minimal and light brushing.
You should have your blood counts checked to make sure that you do not have a very low platelet count or another type of functional clotting disorder, which could be a predispose to easy bleeding and bruising of the gums. Bleeding gums can also be a sign of scurvy, which is a problem caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C. This could be the cause of your symptoms if you follow a very poor diet low particularly low in citrus.
If your blood tests produce fine results and your doctor thinks the symptoms are more likely caused by gingivitis, then you should seek further care from your dentist or a periodontist. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor immediately.

Bleeding Gums when Brushing

You’re brushing your teeth and notice a bit of pink when you spit out the toothpaste. You might notice some bleeding when you floss. Although the smallest amount of blood might not seem like a big deal, if your gums are bleeding consistently, you shouldn’t ignore it. Changing your oral care routine can also make your gums bleed, at least at first.
If you notice bleeding gums after your child brushes their teeth, this may be a sign of a serious health issue. Even though everyone has experienced a little gum bleeding every now and then, excessive or frequent bleeding can be a symptom of a much larger problem.

Causes bleeding Gums when brushing

There are numerous conditions why your child’s gums or your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth. The main cause is usually from a build-up of plaque at the gum line.
When plaque is left around the gum line for too long, it can either:

  • Inflame the gums, which causes them to bleed and leads to gingivitis
  • Harden into tartar, which will increase the bleeding and potentially turn into periodontitis

However, there are also several other reasons for bleeding gums after brushing:

  • Brushing too hard
  • Bad flossing technique
  • Tooth- or gum-related infections
  • Vitamin K deficiency

If you notice a lot of blood and think your child is having an emergency, seek urgent care immediately. The best way to know for sure why your child’s gums bleed after brushing their teeth is to visit your nearest dentist.

Bleeding Gums Symptoms Checker

Dentistry by Design is helping you find all your causes or conditions for your current symptoms for mouth, teeth or oral health care in one location. Please remember the Dental Symptoms Checker provided is for educational purposes only, and is not to be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Bleeding, redness, and painful or sore gums can be a symptom of inflammation of the gums that arises due to a number of different causes. Bleeding of the gums is sometimes referred to as gingival bleeding, and it may occur during brushing or flossing. The soreness can be accompanied by swelling of the gum tissues.
Blood-thinner medications are another potential cause of bleeding gums. The hormonal changes during pregnancy can also increase the sensitivity of the gums, which may lead to increased bleeding in some cases. Those with chronic conditions that affect the function of the immune system, such as HIV infection or diabetes, may also have an increased tendency to develop gingivitis.

What to do when your Gums are bleeding

As we have looked at different conditions that may cause your gums to bleed, let us also find out ways to handle these situations. What step to take while your gums are bleeding may differ as per the cause of the bleeding. Here we are going to look at general activities that may help to handle your situation.
You may carry out the following:
Step up your oral care game
As per research findings, the biggest cause of bleeding gums is plaque build-up along the gum line. When you don’t remove plaque in a timely manner, it hardens into tartar, a calcified material that plaque adheres to and continues to irritate the gums, which cause them to bleed and can progress into more advanced forms of gum disease. The best way to reduce plaque build-up and your risk for bleeding gums is to up your oral care routine.
Do the brushing twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Floss at least once a day as well; gums can sometimes stop bleeding with regular flossing. Seeing your dentist on a regular basis not just when you have a problem or concern is also a must to keep your mouth in the best shape.
Take a look at your tools
If you do brush and floss regularly and get your semi-annual dental visit in, your oral hygiene care tools could be what’s causing your gums bleed. Although it might seem that a toothbrush with medium or firm bristles cleans your teeth and gums more deeply or thoroughly, harder bristles usually just cause irritation – which can be why your gums are bleeding.
Using a toothbrush with soft bristles, such as Colgate 360, which cleans your teeth and gums thoroughly without irritation.
In some cases, it might not be the tools that are causing the bleeding, but the way you’re using them. If you’ve been out of the habit of flossing, start again. You might see a bit of blood at your gum line, but remember to always use a gentle hand and avoid pressing the floss against your teeth and gums to hard.
Maintain a healthy diet
What you eat and when you eat it also plays a part in keeping your gums from bleeding. Foods that contain lots of sugar or simple carbohydrates increase your risk for tooth and gum problems, as sugar creates an ideal environment for plaque to form. Commit to a diet that is low in sugar and high in the necessary nutrients found in foods like vegetables.
Do not stop using them. Just remember to eat them in moderation, and brush after these snacks so that the sugar doesn’t have time to stick around.
Investigate your medicine
Certain medications also increase the likelihood that your gums will bleed. Some over-the-counter pain relievers, like aspirin, thin the blood and can therefore increase bleeding. It’s also possible for a prescription medication to cause gum bleeding. If that is the case, your doctor might prescribe a different dose or a different medication altogether.
Visit your dentist
If changing your oral care habits, adjusting your medications, and maintaining a healthy diet doesn’t help your gums stop bleeding, your next step should be to make an appointment with your dentist. He will examine your teeth and gums and determine if you have a more serious condition, such as advanced gum disease.
Your dentist might also take an x-ray of the teeth and gums. If he believes treatment is needed, such as a deep cleaning or periodontal surgery, you’ll likely visit with a periodontist, who specializes in treating gum disease.
In some cases, bleeding gums are no big deal, but in certain instances can warrant professional treatment. With the right diagnosis and personal care, bleeding gums can become a thing of the past.

How do I get my Gums to Stop Bleeding

Although it might seem normal to experience a little bit of bleeding while brushing or flossing, it shouldn’t be ignored. Bleeding gums could be a sign of a number of dental conditions, but it’s usually a symptom of gum disease. In some cases, the causes of bleeding gums may be the result of injuries or infections of the teeth. 
Being aware of the symptoms can help you catch gum disease early and possibly reverse it through gum disease treatment. Bleeding is often one of the first signs there’s a problem with your gums. Bleeding that’s accompanied by red, swollen gums, tenderness, bad breath or tooth sensitivity are symptoms of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Bleeding accompanied by receding gums is also a common symptom of gum disease.
Bleeding Gums Treatment
The best bleeding gums treatment is to remove from your teeth the plaque bacteria that causes gum disease. When dental plaque builds up, it turns into tartar, a hard, sticky substance that adheres to your teeth. Without regular teeth cleaning, dental tartar can become a breeding ground for even more plaque, which can creep below the gum line and lead to an infection that causes bleeding gums.
So if you notice that you have bleeding gums, see a dentist as soon as you can. Seeking bleeding gums treatment at the first sign of a problem can help reverse gingivitis and help prevent periodontitis disease.
Other treatment options, such as scaling and root planning procedures, slow down the process of gum disease. If you suffer from an advanced form of periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend ongoing bleeding gums treatment or periodontal therapy. In some cases, dental surgery may be needed to control the bleeding.
How to Stop Bleeding Gums
The best way to stop bleeding gums is to see your dentist. Your dentist can give you tips on how to stop bleeding gums in between dental visits. That advice might include some of the following tips:

  • Use a soft toothbrush – and brush properly! Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day and after meals. Hard brushing can further damage the soft tissues of your mouth.
  • Floss at least once a day and be sure to floss beyond the gum line to remove more plaque.
  • Control bleeding by applying pressure to the area with a cold compress.
  • Rinse with salt water or hydrogen peroxide to keep the area clean. Avoidmouthwashes that contain alcohol, which can dry out your mouth.
  • Stay away fromsmoking and other tobacco products, which can aggravate bleeding gums
  • Eat a balanced diet and limitsnacking between meals. Carbohydrates and sugars feed dental plaque.
  • Try an oral irrigation device, commonly known as a “water pick,” to clear debris from around the gum line.
  • Have your dentures aligned as needed.

If you have bleeding gums, visit a dentist. A dentist is the expert you can count on to explain the causes of bleeding gums and to advise a treatment plan.
More references;

  1. Causes of bleeding gums: http://www.healthline.com/symptom/bleeding-gums
  2. Bleeding gums and their causes: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003062.htm
  3. Bleeding gums: http://www.medicinenet.com/bleeding_gums/symptoms.htm
  4. Five things you can do if your gums are bleeding: http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/gum-disease/article/five-things-you-can-do-if-your-gums-are-bleeding-1014