Gums go from healthy pink and firm to irritated, red and puffy due to increasing amounts of plaque on the teeth as the body’s inflammatory response kicks in. When the gums are inflamed and agitated, they bleed easily when brushed or flossed .
The most common cause of irritated gums is an inconsistent oral care routine at home. Improper brushing technique can also exacerbate these issues. Not brushing and flossing regularly or properly allows food and bacteria to lodge in between the tooth and gums creating a home for bacteria to multiply and become dental plaque. This buildup of plaque at the gum line, if not removed with a good, healthy clean-mouth routine, can harden into tartar, which can only be removed with professional dental tools.
For milder cases of swollen gums, consider cleaning the gums properly and swishing salt water around in your mouth which can help reduce swelling. The best treatment for gingivitis is a professional dental cleaning to remove tartar and plaque.