Swollen gums can cause discomfort and even pain. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈswəʊlən ɡʌmz/. The "sw" is pronounced as "s-w," and the "o" is pronounced as "uh." The "ll" sound is very important in this word because it represents the lengthening of the "o" vowel sound. The final "en" is pronounced as "uhn," while the stressed syllable is the second one in "gums," pronounced as "guhms." Overall, the spelling of "swollen gums" accurately reflects its pronunciation.
Swollen gums refer to a condition where the soft tissues surrounding the teeth become enlarged and puffy. This condition is also known as gingival swelling or gum inflammation. Typically, healthy gums are firm, pink, and fit snugly around the teeth. However, when gums are inflamed, they may appear red, swollen, and sometimes bleed.
Swollen gums can be caused by several factors, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, hormonal changes, certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, and even trauma to the gums. Plaque buildup is a common reason for gum inflammation as bacteria in plaque produce toxins that irritate the gum tissues. If left untreated, swollen gums can progress to advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis, which can cause bone and tooth loss.
The most common symptoms associated with swollen gums include tenderness, sensitivity, increased gum size, bleeding during brushing or flossing, bad breath, and even loose teeth. To treat swollen gums, it is important to address the underlying cause. This may involve improving oral hygiene practices by brushing and flossing regularly, using antimicrobial mouthwashes, and seeking professional dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. In more severe cases, a dentist may perform deep cleaning procedures, known as scaling and root planing, to remove bacteria and promote gum healing.
Preventing swollen gums can be achieved by maintaining good oral hygiene, consuming a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco products, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Swift identification and treatment of swollen gums can help prevent complications and maintain optimal oral health.
The word "swollen" comes from the Middle English word "swollen", which means "to become swollen or inflated". It originated from the Old English word "swellan", meaning "to become swollen or inflate".
The word "gums" refers to the tissues that surround and support the teeth in the mouth. It comes from the Middle English word "gome", which came from the Old English word "gōma" meaning "gum or palate".
Therefore, the term "swollen gums" refers to the condition where the gum tissues become enlarged, puffy, or inflamed.