Why Are My Gums Swollen? A Calgary Dentist Explains Causes and Treatment

Swollen, tender or bleeding gums are one of the most common reasons new patients call our SW Calgary clinic. The good news: with the right diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to the cause, gum swelling almost always responds well to care. The catch: it rarely resolves on its own, and untreated gum problems can quietly progress into something far more serious.

Here is what every Calgary resident should know about swollen gums — what causes them, when to worry, and what treatment looks like at Genesis Dental Centre.

For step-by-step treatment information, see our dedicated page on gum swelling treatment in SW Calgary.

What causes swollen gums?

Most cases fall into one of five buckets:

• Gingivitis — the earliest stage of gum disease, caused by plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line. Gums look red, puffy and may bleed when you brush.

• Periodontitis — advanced gum disease where the infection has reached the bone supporting your teeth. Swelling is often accompanied by gum recession and persistent bad breath.

• Dental abscess — a bacterial infection in a tooth root or between teeth and gums. Usually painful, often with localized swelling and sometimes fever.

• Food impaction — a seed, popcorn kernel or food fragment trapped between teeth. The body reacts as if to an infection: localized swelling, tenderness, sometimes a sour taste.

• Other triggers — hormonal changes (pregnancy, menstruation), poorly fitting dental work, vitamin deficiencies, or reactions to certain medications.

When to see a dentist immediately

Most gum swelling is not a true emergency, but these signs mean call your dentist the same day:

• Fever, facial puffiness or pus discharge — possible abscess that needs drainage

• Difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing or breathing — seek emergency care

• Sharp pain that radiates to your jaw or ear

• A tooth that feels loose alongside the swelling

• Bleeding that does not stop within a few minutes of pressure

What treatment looks like

At our SW Calgary clinic, your first visit usually takes 45 to 60 minutes and includes:

• Comprehensive examination — we measure pocket depths around each tooth, check for bleeding points and recession, and document everything in your chart.

• Digital X-rays — to check for bone loss, abscess or hidden infection beneath the gum line. Visual inspection alone misses up to 60 percent of early periodontal bone loss.

• Treatment plan tailored to the cause. Mild gingivitis usually resolves with a professional dental cleaning and improved home care. Moderate gum disease often needs scaling and root planing. Active abscess requires antibiotics and drainage.

• Personalized home-care guidance — proper brush technique, flossing tools, mouthwash choice and nutrition tips proven to support gum healing.

• Follow-up visit 4 to 6 weeks later to confirm the gums are healing and adjust the plan if needed.

Approximate cost in Calgary

Following the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, you can expect approximately:

• Routine dental cleaning: from $120

• Emergency gum infection assessment: from $90

• Scaling per unit: from $65

• Root planing per quadrant: from $180

Genesis Dental Centre accepts CDCP and most major insurance plans. We process claims directly so you only pay your portion at the visit.

Why gum health matters beyond your mouth

A growing body of research links advanced gum disease to higher risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Treating gum inflammation early is not just about saving your teeth — it is part of protecting your overall health.

Book a gum health check in SW Calgary

If you have noticed redness, swelling, bleeding or persistent bad breath, do not wait for it to get worse. Schedule an appointment at Genesis Dental Centre today by calling (403) 266-4920 or booking online. We welcome new patients including CDCP recipients.