What Can Cause Oral Inflammation?

Oral inflammation is a common condition that can cause discomfort, pain and even serious health problems if left untreated. It is characterized by swelling, redness and soreness in the gums, tongue and other parts of the mouth. There are many factors that can cause oral inflammation, some of which are more serious than others.

Top Causes of Oral Inflammation

Dr. Evan Grodin is a skilled and experienced Periodontist and Prosthodontist in Atlanta who can treat oral inflammation and other problems with the gums and surrounding structures. He discusses the various causes of oral inflammation, how to recognize the symptoms and what you can do to prevent it.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor Oral Hygiene is the most common cause of oral inflammation. When you don’t brush your teeth regularly, or floss, plaque and bacteria can build up in your mouth, leading to gum disease and inflammation. This can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss and other health problems.

To prevent oral inflammation, brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. You should also visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

Infection

Infections can also cause oral inflammation. One of the most common infections is oral thrush, which is caused by a yeast infection. This can cause white patches on the tongue and other parts of the mouth, as well as redness and soreness.

Other infections that can cause oral inflammation include herpes, syphilis and gonorrhea. These infections can cause blisters, sores and other symptoms.

Allergies

Some people may be allergic to certain foods, medications or other substances that can cause oral inflammation. Common allergens include nuts, shellfish and certain medications. If you have an allergy, you may experience swelling, redness and itching in your mouth.

Injury

Injuries to the mouth can also cause oral inflammation. This can include cuts, burns and other injuries. If you have a dental procedure, such as a root canal or extraction, you may also experience some inflammation and soreness.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes can also cause oral inflammation, which is most common in women during pregnancy or menopause. These changes can affect the mouth, including increased blood flow and changes in the composition of saliva.

Symptoms of Oral Inflammation

The symptoms of oral inflammation can vary depending on the cause. Some common symptoms include:

• Swelling and redness in the gums
• Soreness and tenderness in the mouth
• Bleeding gums
• White patches on the tongue or other parts of the mouth
• Bad breath
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Loose teeth

Preventing Oral Inflammation

The best way to prevent oral inflammation is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day and visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

You should also avoid smoking and using tobacco products, which can increase your risk of gum disease and other oral health problems.

If you have an allergy, it is important to avoid allergens that can cause oral inflammation. If you have an infection, you may need to take antibiotics or other medications to treat it.

Atlanta, GA, Periodontic Specialist

Oral inflammation is a common condition that can cause discomfort and pain. Many factors can cause it, including poor oral hygiene, infections, allergies, injuries and hormonal changes.

If you have persistent oral inflammation or other symptoms, contact Dr. Evan Grodin for an evaluation. He can determine the cause and recommend treatment to restore and preserve your oral health before more severe symptoms like tooth loss occur.