10 Tips to Reduce Swollen Gums at Home

We know that swollen gums are pretty common, but the good news is that there’s a lot you can do to help alleviate swelling and minimize your discomfort! That’s why in this blog, we’ll give you 10 tips to reduce swollen gums at home.

Saltwater Rinse

Saltwater rinses have been proven to soothe gum inflammation and help them heal faster. Never done a saltwater rinse? Here’s how:

• Mix 1 tsp. of salt and 8 oz. of lukewarm water
• Rinse mouth for 30 seconds
• Spit it out. Do not swallow
• Do this 2 to 3 times a day until the swelling goes away

Brush, Brush, Brush!

If you notice swelling in your gums, make sure you are brushing at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Most times, swollen gums are caused by gingivitis, and good oral hygiene is an excellent way to combat it.

Healthy Diet

Having a healthy diet can help you maintain healthy oral hygiene. Add extra fruits and vegetables to your meals and stay away from sugary drinks and food. Don’t eat foods that can easily get stuck between your teeth and gums, such as popcorn.

Lemon Juice

Gargle boiled lemon juice twice a day until swelling goes away.

Drink Water!

Drinking lots of water will help revitalize your saliva’s production, which helps weaken disease-causing bacteria in your mouth.

Warm & Cold Compresses

Another way to reduce swollen gums is to complete warm and cold compresses. You can do this by:

• Soaking a towel in warm water (squeeze out excess water)
• Hold the warm cloth against your face for about 5 minutes. Make sure you do this outside your mouth and not directly on your gums
• With another towel, wrap a small bag of crushed ice and hold this against your face for another 5 minutes
• Repeat the warm/cold cycle 2 to 3 more times
• Complete this technique 2 to 3 times a day for the first two days you discover your swollen gums

Turmeric Gel

Turmeric gel can help because it contains curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. You can apply the gel after brushing your teeth. Let the gel sit on your gums for about 10 minutes, then rinse with water and spit – do not swallow. Do this 2 times a day until swelling goes away.

Hydrogen Peroxide

According to the Indiana State Department of Health, rinsing your gums with water and only a food-grade 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution 2 to 3 times a week will reduce swelling. Swish for 30 seconds and spit out – do not swallow.

Avoid Irritants

Try avoiding irritants such as alcohol and tobacco. This will help reduce your swollen gums.

Essential Oils

Make your own mouthwash using essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree, and chamomile.

We hope these 10 tips to reduce swollen gums at home helped you! Please note that if your gums remain swollen for more than a week, you should make a dentist appointment immediately. For all dental care needs, contact us or call us at (858) 484-2560.