What medication should be taken for inflamed gums?

Generally, gingival inflammation is often caused by infectious inflammation triggered by dental plaque and calculus irritating the gums. Patients can follow medical advice to use medications such as Metronidazole tablets, Amoxicillin capsules, Cefuroxime axetil tablets, Ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and Compound Chlorhexidine mouthwash for treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Metronidazole Tablets

Metronidazole is an antibiotic effective against anaerobic bacteria. Gingival inflammation often relates to anaerobic bacterial infection. This medication inhibits anaerobic bacterial DNA synthesis, preventing bacterial proliferation and thereby killing the bacteria causing inflammation. It effectively relieves symptoms such as red and swollen gums and pain, especially suitable for patients with significant halitosis accompanying gingival inflammation.

2. Amoxicillin Capsules

Amoxicillin belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics and exerts bactericidal effects by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It demonstrates strong antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria such as streptococci that cause gingival inflammation, helping control localized gum infections and reducing inflammatory responses. It is often used in combination with metronidazole to enhance therapeutic effects. Patients must confirm no history of penicillin allergy before use.

3. Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets

Cefuroxime axetil is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic with antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria. It kills bacteria by disrupting their cell walls and can be used to treat patients with gingival inflammation who are allergic to penicillin or not responding well to amoxicillin. It effectively controls infections and alleviates symptoms such as swollen and painful gums.

4. Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Capsules

Ibuprofen belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It reduces inflammation symptoms such as gum pain and swelling by inhibiting cyclooxygenase activity and decreasing prostaglandin synthesis. As a symptomatic treatment drug, it helps relieve discomfort but cannot eliminate the infection source. Therefore, it should be used in combination with antibiotics to control inflammation effectively.

5. Compound Chlorhexidine Mouthwash

Compound Chlorhexidine Mouthwash is a topical combination medication containing chlorhexidine and metronidazole. Chlorhexidine disrupts bacterial cell membranes, while metronidazole targets anaerobic bacteria. Together, they work synergistically to inhibit bacterial growth in the oral cavity, reduce plaque formation, and assist in relieving gingival inflammation. It is suitable as a local adjunctive treatment for gingival inflammation.

Maintaining good oral hygiene habits in daily life is important: brushing teeth in the morning and evening, rinsing the mouth after meals, and using dental floss to clean interdental spaces; avoiding spicy, overly cold, or hot foods to reduce gum irritation; and undergoing regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleaning to remove dental calculus.