Swollen Gums Treatment in Henley on Thames
Swollen gums can be painful and alarming, often indicating an underlying infection, inflammation, or dental condition that requires professional attention. Whether the swelling is mild and localised or severe and accompanied by facial swelling, it is important to have it assessed promptly. At The DNA Henley Clinic in Henley on Thames, we provide emergency appointments to diagnose the cause of gum swelling, manage any infection, and deliver the appropriate treatment to restore your comfort and oral health.
Common Causes
Dental abscess — a bacterial infection at the root of a tooth or in the gum can cause significant swelling, pain, and pus formation.
Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) — infection and inflammation of the gums caused by plaque build-up is one of the most common causes of gum swelling.
Food impaction — food trapped between teeth or under the gum line can cause localised irritation and swelling.
Pericoronitis — swelling of the gum tissue around a partially erupted tooth, most commonly affecting wisdom teeth.
Poorly fitting dental appliances — dentures, crowns, or braces that rub or press on the gums can cause inflammation and swelling.
Allergic reactions — sensitivity to certain toothpastes, mouthwashes, or dental materials can occasionally cause gum swelling.
Hormonal changes — pregnancy, menstruation, and puberty can increase blood flow to the gums, making them more prone to swelling.
Symptoms to Watch For
Visibly swollen, red, or puffy gum tissue
Pain or tenderness when touching the swollen area or when eating
Bleeding from the affected gum, particularly during brushing
Facial swelling on the side of the affected area
A foul taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath
Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing if swelling is severe
Fever or feeling generally unwell
Pus discharging from the gum near the affected area
A throbbing or constant ache in the jaw
Need Urgent Dental Care?
Contact The DNA Henley Clinic in Henley on Thames for prompt, compassionate treatment. We offer same-day emergency appointments.
Treatment Options
Drainage of abscess — if a dental abscess is causing the swelling, the abscess may need to be drained to release the trapped pus and relieve pressure. This is followed by thorough cleaning and appropriate follow-up treatment.
Antibiotics — for bacterial infections causing significant swelling, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection. Antibiotics are typically used alongside other treatment rather than as a standalone remedy.
Professional cleaning — if gum disease is the cause, a thorough scale and polish to remove plaque and tartar allows the gums to heal and reduces swelling.
Root canal treatment — if the swelling is caused by an infected tooth pulp, root canal treatment can remove the source of infection and save the tooth.
Tooth extraction — in severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary to eliminate the source of infection and allow healing.
Adjustment of dental appliances — if poorly fitting dentures or braces are causing the swelling, adjustments can be made to relieve pressure and irritation on the gum tissue.
Prevention Tips
Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine — brush twice daily and clean between teeth to prevent plaque build-up and gum disease.
Attend regular dental check-ups at The DNA Henley Clinic so that potential problems can be detected and addressed early.
Do not ignore early signs of gum disease such as bleeding or tenderness — early treatment can prevent progression to more serious conditions.
If you wear dentures, ensure they are checked regularly for fit and comfort.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water if you notice mild gum irritation — this can help soothe inflammation temporarily until you can see a dentist.
Avoid smoking, which impairs gum health and slows healing after treatment.