Puffy Gums: Causes, Home Remedies & When to See a Dentist

Healthy gums are key to dental health. Oftentimes, puffy gums are indicative of gum disease or other serious mouth conditions. If you have puffy gums, it's a good idea to see your dentist to confirm that you aren't suffering from a serious dental disorder. You can then take several steps to treat your puffy gums. There are plenty of simple home remedies for doing so.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Mouthwash
• Vitamin C
• Clove oil

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Instructions

• 1

  Drink lots of water. Water helps flush away the bacteria that often causes puffy gums. Aim to drink at least 64 ounces daily.

• 2

  Brush your teeth two or three times daily, using a medium to stiff toothbrush. Carefully scrub along the gumline each time you brush.

• 3

  Run your toothbrush lightly over your gums. This will help release any bacteria that is resting on the gums. It will also increase circulation, thereby alleviating some of the puffiness.

• 4

  Floss twice daily. If your gums are quite puffy, they may bleed the first few times you floss. Always press the floss firmly against your gums.

• 5

  Use an antibacterial mouthwash. Mouthwashes such as Listerine have been shown to reduce gingivitis and other gum diseases. Rinse with mouthwash after you have brushed and flossed your teeth.

• 6

  Rinse and gargle with a warm saline solution. Mix two pinches of salt with a glass of warm water to create the solution.

• 7

  Take vitamin C daily. Vitamin C helps treat gum disease naturally, resulting in less puffy gums over time.

• 8

  Rub clove oil on your gums. It naturally soothes inflammation and aids in healing.