Swollen gums, also known as gingival swelling, occur when the gum tissue becomes inflamed, puffy, and tender. This condition is often a sign of underlying oral health issues such as gingivitis, ...

While it is a common problem, swollen gums can have a number of causes including excessive use of tobacco products, infections and even pregnancy. Gingivitis is the most common cause of swollen gums.

For example, an infection may cause swelling in only one cheek. Cheek and gum swelling often indicates an infection of the gums or a tooth abscess. Pericoronitis, for example, is an infection that ...