6 Ways to Treat Swollen Gums Naturally and When to See a Doctor

Swollen gums may seem trivial, but anyone who has experienced them knows how bothersome they can be. The mouth feels uncomfortable, pain occurs when eating, and even smiling can sting. If left untreated, swollen gums not only make you feel unwell but can also lead to more serious problems such as damage to the supporting tissues of the teeth and jawbone.

The good news is, for mild cases, there are many natural remedies you can try at home. The ingredients are simple and easy to find in the kitchen. But before we get into how to treat them, let's first understand why swollen gums occur.

Why Do Gums Swell?

Swollen gums are essentially a sign of inflammation in the gum tissue. In the medical world, this condition is most often associated with gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Although it may seem mild, swollen gums are actually a sign that something is wrong in the mouth. If not treated promptly, this inflammation can develop into a more serious condition and affect the tissue supporting the teeth.

There are several main causes of swollen gums. Here's a complete explanation:

1. Plaque Buildup

The most common cause of swollen gums is plaque buildup. Plaque is a thin, sticky layer formed from food debris and bacteria that sticks to the surface of the teeth. If not properly removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque will continue to build up.

Over time, plaque can harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove without the help of a dentist. This tartar irritates the gum tissue and triggers inflammation. As a result, the gums become red, painful, swollen, and bleed easily when brushing or chewing hard foods.

2. Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard

Many people think that the harder they brush, the cleaner they will be. However, this habit can actually injure the gums. Excessive pressure when brushing can cause irritation and even small wounds to the gum tissue.

If done continuously, the gums can become inflamed and swollen. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush also exacerbates this risk. Ideally, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush slowly and use the correct technique to maintain healthy gums.

3. Vitamin Deficiency

An unbalanced nutritional intake can also affect gum health. Vitamin deficiencies, especially B-complex vitamins and vitamin C, make gum tissue more susceptible to infection and inflammation.

Vitamin C plays an important role in maintaining the strength of connective tissue and aiding wound healing. A deficiency in this vitamin can cause the gums to bleed easily and swell. In severe cases, vitamin C deficiency can even lead to serious oral health problems.

4. Infection

Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi can also trigger gum swelling. This condition is usually accompanied by more intense pain, obvious redness, and sometimes even the appearance of pus.

Bacterial infections often occur due to poor oral hygiene. Meanwhile, fungal infections are more common in people with weakened immune systems. If the swelling is accompanied by fever or severe pain, you should see a dentist immediately.

5. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes also play a role in gum health, especially in women. During pregnancy, menstruation, or puberty, hormonal fluctuations can make the gums more sensitive to plaque.

As a result, even if the plaque buildup is not excessive, the gums can still become inflamed and swollen. This condition is often referred to as "pregnancy gingivitis" in pregnant women.

Generally, swollen gums are the body's response to irritation or infection. By maintaining good oral hygiene, meeting nutritional needs, and using proper brushing techniques, the risk of swollen gums can be minimized. If the swelling does not improve within a few days, it is best to consult a medical professional for appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of Swollen Gums to Watch Out For

Swollen gums aren't just about the gums appearing enlarged. There are usually other accompanying signs that you should pay serious attention to. Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent the condition from progressing to more serious conditions, such as periodontitis, an advanced gum infection that can damage the tissue and bone supporting the teeth.

One of the most common signs is a change in gum color to dark red or purplish red. Healthy gums are generally pink and appear firm. When inflamed, they become darker and appear more sensitive.

Another symptom is easily bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. Many people consider this normal, but bleeding is actually a sign of inflammation. If left untreated, this condition can worsen.

Pain when chewing is also common. The pain can be mild to quite bothersome, depending on the level of inflammation. In some cases, the gums may feel throbbing or pressure from within, which indicates active swelling.

Furthermore, persistent bad breath can also be a sign of gum infection. Bacteria growing in the inflamed area produce an unpleasant odor.

In more serious cases, pus may appear around the gums or between teeth. This indicates an infection that requires medical attention. In severe cases, the tooth may even feel loose as the supporting tissue begins to break down.

If symptoms are mild, you can try natural home treatments. However, if the pain is severe, the gums continue to bleed, or pus appears, you should consult a dentist immediately for appropriate treatment.

Six Effective Ways to Treat Swollen Gums Naturally

Here are some natural ways you can help relieve swollen gums.

1. Gargle with Salt Water

When it comes to natural ways to treat swollen gums, gargling with salt water is the most classic method that almost everyone has tried. This method is simple, inexpensive, and can be done at home without any special ingredients. Although it may seem trivial, salt water actually has quite effective benefits in helping to relieve gum inflammation.

Salt water has natural antiseptic properties. This means that this solution can help reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth, which are the main cause of gum irritation and swelling. When gums are inflamed, bacteria usually build up around the gum line. By gargling with salt water, the environment in the mouth becomes less ideal for bacteria to thrive.

Furthermore, salt water is also osmotic. This means the salt solution can help draw excess fluid from inflamed tissue. As a result, swelling can gradually decrease and discomfort becomes less severe.

• How to Make and Use It
• Making a salt water solution is very easy:
• Prepare a glass of warm water (not hot water).
• Add half a teaspoon of table salt.
• Stir until the salt is completely dissolved.
• Use the solution to gargle for approximately 30 seconds.
• Spit out the mouthwash; don't swallow it.
• Repeat 2–3 times daily, especially after meals and before bed.

Make sure the water you use is warm, not hot. Warm water helps increase blood flow to the gums, allowing the body's natural healing process to work more optimally. The warm sensation also has a soothing effect on inflamed gum tissue.

When gargling, ensure the solution reaches the swollen gums. You can tilt your head back slightly or swish the water around in your mouth to ensure the salt solution is fully exposed to the gums.

Why Is Salt Water Effective?

The body naturally has the ability to fight infection. However, when bacteria become too numerous, this defense system can be overwhelmed. This is where salt water helps by creating a cleaner environment and supporting the healing process.

This method is often recommended as an initial treatment for minor problems such as canker sores, sore throats, and mild gum inflammation, which is often associated with gingivitis.

Important Note

Although safe and natural, salt water gargling should not be overused. Overuse of highly concentrated salt solutions can affect tooth enamel and cause a drier mouth.

If the swelling doesn't improve after 3–5 days, or if symptoms such as persistent bleeding gums, severe pain, or pus appear, you should see a dentist immediately.

Gargles with salt water aren't a magic solution that will cure your gums overnight. However, as a first aid measure, they can be quite effective in helping to naturally relieve pain and swelling.

2. Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil

Besides gargling with salt water, another popular natural method for relieving swollen gums is oil pulling using coconut oil. This technique is actually nothing new. Oil pulling has been used for thousands of years in traditional Indian medicine, particularly in the Ayurvedic system. The goal is to maintain oral hygiene and help reduce the number of harmful bacteria.

Simply put, oil pulling is the technique of gargling vegetable oil in the mouth for several minutes. Of the various oils, coconut oil is a favorite because of its relatively mild taste and rich nutritional content.

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Lauric acid can help fight bacteria that cause plaque and gum inflammation. When the number of bacteria in the mouth is reduced, the risk of irritation and swelling also decreases.

Furthermore, the thick texture of the oil can "bind" residual dirt and bacteria between the teeth and along the gum line. When the oil is spit out, the dirt is removed from the oral cavity.

How to Do Oil Pulling

Here are the steps you can follow:

• Take 1–2 tablespoons of pure coconut oil (virgin coconut oil is preferred).
• Put it in your mouth without adding water.
• Swish it around gently for 5–10 minutes. Don't swish too vigorously; just move the oil around your mouth.
• Make sure not to swallow the oil.
• When finished, throw the oil in the trash (avoid pouring it down the sink, as it can solidify and clog the drain).
• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Continue brushing your teeth as usual.

The best time to do oil pulling is usually in the morning before eating or before brushing your teeth.

Why Does Oil Pulling Help?

Bacteria in the mouth have a layer of fat on their cell walls. Coconut oil's lipophilic (fat-attracting) properties help attract and bind these bacteria. This is why oil pulling is believed to be effective in helping maintain gum health.

This method is also often associated with preventing early stages of gum disease such as gingivitis, especially when done regularly and in conjunction with good oral hygiene.

Things to Note

For first-timers, the oily sensation in the mouth may feel strange or even slightly nauseating. However, the body usually adapts after a few tries.

Oil pulling is not a substitute for brushing or tartar cleaning. This method is only a support method to help maintain the balance of bacteria in the mouth.

If your gums are swollen, accompanied by severe pain, persistent bleeding, or pus, you should consult a dentist immediately. Oil pulling can be an additional step, but it is not a solution for severe infections.

With consistency and the correct method, oil pulling using coconut oil can be a natural routine to help maintain overall gum and oral health.

3. Tea Bag Compress

Who would have thought that the beverage we enjoy every day could also be used to help relieve swollen gums? Yes, a tea bag compress is a fairly effective natural way to reduce swelling and pain in the gums.

Tea contains various active compounds such as antioxidants, tannins, and anti-inflammatory substances that are useful for helping soothe inflamed tissue. Some of the most commonly used teas to treat swollen gums are Camellia sinensis (which is the base for green and black teas) and herbal teas such as Matricaria chamomilla.

Green and black teas are rich in polyphenols that help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation. Meanwhile, chamomile is known for its soothing effect and natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain.

Why Can Tea Bags Help?

One of the important compounds in tea is tannin. Tannins have astringent properties, meaning they can help tighten tissue and reduce swelling. When a tea bag is applied to the inflamed gum area, these active substances work directly on the irritated tissue.

Additionally, the warm sensation of a freshly brewed tea bag can also help increase blood flow to the gum area. This increased blood circulation supports the body's natural healing process. However, if your gums are very painful or throbbing, you can also use a tea bag that has been chilled in the refrigerator to provide a cold compress that helps relieve the pain.

How to Use Tea Bags for Swollen Gums

The steps are quite simple:

• Step one tea bag in a cup of hot water for a few minutes.
• Remove the tea bag and squeeze it slightly to remove it from the water.
• Let it cool to lukewarm (not too hot to avoid irritating your gums).
• Place the tea bag directly on the swollen gum area.
• Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
• Afterward, discard the tea bag and rinse your mouth with clean water.
• You can do this 1–2 times daily until the swelling subsides.

Additional Tips

Make sure to use tea without added sugar or sweeteners. Sugar can actually exacerbate bacterial growth in the mouth. Additionally, use disposable tea bags to maintain hygiene.

While tea bag compresses can help reduce mild inflammation, they are still a supportive method. If the swelling doesn't improve within a few days or is accompanied by symptoms such as severe bleeding gums, pus, or loose teeth, you should consult a dentist immediately.

With a practical method and ingredients easily found in the kitchen, tea bag compresses can be a simple yet effective natural solution to help relieve swollen gums.

4. Gargle with Boiled Guava Leaves

Besides kitchen ingredients like salt or turmeric, herbs can also be used to help relieve swollen gums. One popular traditional medicine remedy is guava leaves from the Psidium guajava plant. These leaves have long been known to have antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for oral health.

Guava leaves contain various active compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and saponins. These compounds play a role in inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause plaque and gum infections. Furthermore, their astringent properties help tighten inflamed gum tissue, gradually reducing swelling.

When gums become inflamed, there is usually an increase in bacteria around the gum line. If left untreated, this condition can develop into a more serious problem. Boiled guava leaf water works by helping suppress bacterial growth while soothing irritated tissue.

How to Make Guava Leaf Water

To reap the benefits, follow these steps:

• Take 5–6 fresh, young guava leaves.
• Wash thoroughly under running water to remove dirt.
• Lightly crush the leaves to release their natural compounds.
• Boil the leaves in about 2 cups of water for approximately 15 minutes over low heat.
• Afterward, strain the water and let it cool to room temperature.
• Add a pinch of salt to enhance the antiseptic effect.
• Use the boiled water to gargle for 30 seconds.
• Do this 2–3 times daily, especially after meals and before bed.
• Make sure the water is cool enough before use to avoid irritating sensitive gums.

Why Is It Effective for Swollen Gums?

The antibacterial compounds in guava leaves help reduce the number of infection-causing microorganisms. Meanwhile, their anti-inflammatory properties work to reduce swelling and pain. This combination makes boiled guava leaf water quite effective as a natural treatment for mild cases of swollen gums.

Furthermore, the tannins in guava leaves have a tissue-tightening effect, making gums feel stronger and less likely to bleed. This is why guava leaves are often used in various herbal products for oral health.

Things to Note

Although natural, guava leaves should still be used in moderation. If there is no improvement after a few days or if symptoms such as pus-filled gums, severe pain, or fever develop, consult a dentist immediately.

Guava leaf decoction can be a practical and easy-to-make natural alternative at home. With regular use and good oral hygiene, this method can help speed up the natural healing process of swollen gums.

5. Turmeric and Clove Rub for Swollen Gums

If you're looking for a natural ingredient easily found in the kitchen to help relieve swollen gums, turmeric could be one of the best options. This bright yellow spice is not only popular as a cooking spice but also widely known in traditional medicine for its extraordinary properties.

Turmeric comes from the Curcuma longa plant and contains an active compound called curcumin. Curcumin provides powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. When gums are swollen, the inflammation is usually caused by a bacterial infection or irritation. Curcumin helps reduce this inflammation and inhibits the growth of bacteria in the gum area.

How to Use Turmeric for Swollen Gums

Using turmeric as a natural remedy is quite simple:

• Take a sufficient amount of turmeric powder.
• Mix it with a little warm water to form a thick paste.
• Apply the turmeric paste directly to the swollen gums.
• Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
• Afterward, rinse your mouth with clean water.
• Do this twice a day until the symptoms subside.

When applying, make sure your hands are clean. You can also use a cotton swab for greater hygiene. A mild warming sensation may be felt, but it usually doesn't sting excessively.

In addition to helping reduce swelling, turmeric also supports the healing process of irritated tissue. However, it's important to remember that turmeric has a strong color that can leave a temporary yellow stain on your teeth or gums. This stain usually disappears after brushing. 

Natural Alternative: Cloves

Besides turmeric, cloves are also often used as a natural pain reliever for tooth and gum problems. Cloves come from the Syzygium aromaticum plant and contain an active compound called eugenol.

Eugenol is known to have antiseptic and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Therefore, clove oil has long been used in traditional dentistry to help reduce pain from cavities and inflamed gums.

How to Use Clove Oil

• Drip a small amount of clove oil onto a clean cotton ball.
• Place the cotton ball on the painful area of ​​your gums.
• Let it sit for a few minutes.
• Afterward, remove it and rinse your mouth if necessary.

If you don't have clove oil, you can also use dried cloves by placing them between the sore gums and the inside of your cheek. However, the effect is usually milder than clove oil.

Things to Note

Both turmeric and cloves should be used in moderation. Too much clove oil can cause an excessive burning sensation. If irritation or intense discomfort occurs, discontinue use immediately.

Keep in mind that these natural ingredients are suitable for minor complaints. If swollen gums are accompanied by severe pain, pus, or persistent bleeding, you should consult a dentist immediately.

When used correctly, turmeric and cloves can be a practical natural solution to help relieve swollen gums and maintain overall oral health.

6. Gargle with Lemon Water

Lemons are not only refreshing to drink, but they can also be used as a natural way to help relieve swollen gums. This bright yellow fruit from the Citrus limon plant is known to be rich in vitamin C and has natural antibacterial properties that are good for oral health.

Vitamin C plays an important role in maintaining the strength of gum tissue and aiding the healing process during inflammation. A vitamin C deficiency can make gums bleed and swell more easily. By using lemon as a natural mouthwash, you can help meet your local vitamin C needs while ridding your mouth of infection-causing bacteria.

Furthermore, lemons have natural acidic properties that help balance the pH in the mouth. When the mouth's pH becomes too acidic due to food debris and bacterial activity, this creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. When used properly and diluted, lemon water can help create a mouth environment that is less conducive to bacterial growth.

How to Make and Use It

Here are simple steps you can do at home:

• Squeeze one fresh lemon.
• Mix the juice with a glass of warm water.
• Stir until well combined.
• Use this solution to gargle for approximately 30 seconds.
• Spit out the mouthwash; don't swallow it.
• Do this 2–3 times daily, especially after meals.

Make sure to always dilute the lemon with water. Using lemon juice that is too concentrated can risk damaging tooth enamel due to its strong acidity.

Benefits of Lemon Water for Swollen Gums

When gums are swollen, there is usually inflammation caused by bacteria and irritation. The natural antibacterial properties of lemon help suppress the growth of these bacteria. Meanwhile, vitamin C supports tissue regeneration and speeds up the healing process.

The refreshing sensation of lemon also helps reduce bad breath that often accompanies inflamed gums. By reducing the number of bacteria in the mouth, the unpleasant odor can also subside.

Things to Note

Although it's natural, use lemon water wisely. Due to its acidic nature, gargling with lemon water too often can cause tooth enamel to become thinner or more sensitive. It's best to wait about 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after gargling with lemon water to prevent enamel erosion.

If your gums are still swollen, very painful, or other symptoms such as excessive bleeding or pus appear after a few days, consult a dentist immediately.

With a simple method and readily available ingredients, gargling with lemon water can be a natural alternative to help relieve swollen gums. However, be sure to balance this with regular oral hygiene to maintain long-term gum health.

Additional Tips for Faster Gum Healing

Treating swollen gums with natural ingredients can help reduce inflammation. However, the results will be much more optimal if you also practice proper oral care habits every day. Without changing your habits, the swelling can return.

Here are some important steps you should take to ensure a faster and more effective healing process:

1. Brush Your Teeth Gently

Many people think that brushing harder will clean their teeth better. However, this habit can actually exacerbate irritation to inflamed gums. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and use circular or sweeping motions with light pressure.

Overly aggressive brushing techniques can injure gum tissue and slow healing. Ideally, brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning after breakfast and at night before bed.

2. Floss

Brushing alone is not enough to clean between your teeth. Food debris trapped between your teeth can become a breeding ground for bacteria and form plaque. If left untreated, this plaque can trigger more serious inflammation such as gingivitis.

Floss gently and carefully to avoid injuring your gums. Do this at least once a day, especially before bed.

3. Increase Your Vitamin C Intake

Vitamin C plays an important role in maintaining strong connective tissue and speeding up the wound healing process. A vitamin C deficiency can cause gums to bleed easily and be more susceptible to infection.

You can get vitamin C from fruits such as oranges, kiwi, strawberries, or guava. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet also helps boost your immune system, making it more effective at fighting inflammation-causing bacteria.

4. Drink Enough Water

Water helps naturally flush out food debris and bacteria in the mouth. Saliva production will also be more optimal if the body is well-hydrated. Saliva acts as a natural barrier that helps maintain the balance of bacteria in the oral cavity.

Make a habit of drinking water after meals to help remove any food debris.

5. Avoid Foods That Are Too Hot or Spicy

When your gums are inflamed, foods that are too hot, spicy, or hard can worsen the irritation. It's best to choose soft foods and foods that aren't too hot to prevent gum sensitivity.

When to See a Doctor?

Natural treatments and habit changes are best for mild cases. However, there are some conditions that shouldn't be ignored. See a dentist immediately if you experience:

• Persistent bleeding gums
• Severe, unbearable pain
• Pus on the gums
• Severe bad breath that doesn't improve
• Loose teeth
• Swelling that doesn't improve after 3–5 days

Medical treatment may include professional scaling, antibiotics if infection is present, or further procedures to prevent further tissue damage.

Remember, the sooner treatment is given, the lower the risk of complications. Don't wait until the condition worsens before seeking professional help.

Conclusion

Swollen gums are common and often considered a minor problem. However, if left untreated, this condition can develop into a more serious disorder and damage the supporting tissues of the teeth.

Fortunately, for mild cases, there are many natural remedies you can try at home. Gargling with salt water, oil pulling with coconut oil, tea bag compresses, guava leaf decoction, turmeric and clove ointments, and even lemon water gargles can all help reduce inflammation and reduce pain.

However, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene and pay attention to any symptoms. If the swelling persists or worsens, consult a dentist immediately for appropriate treatment.

Caring for your gums isn't just about relieving pain, but also a long-term investment in your dental and overall health.