How long does it usually take for swollen and painful gums to heal?

　　The recovery time for swollen and painful gums varies depending on the cause. Mild inflammation may subside within 1–3 days, while conditions such as periodontitis may require 1–2 weeks. If an abscess is present, recovery may take even longer. If swelling and pain persist beyond 3 days without improvement, prompt medical attention is necessary.

　　If the gum swelling and pain are caused by mild inflammation due to food impaction or improper brushing techniques, symptoms usually begin to gradually improve within 1–3 days after timely oral cleaning and removal of irritants. However, if the condition is caused by diseases such as periodontitis or gingivitis, where inflammation has affected deeper gum tissues, professional scaling to remove tartar and plaque, along with local medication, is required, and recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks.

　　When gum swelling and pain are accompanied by abscess formation, this indicates a more severe infection. Treatment may involve incision and drainage to remove pus, followed by anti-infective therapy. In such cases, recovery may extend to 2–3 weeks, and regular follow-up visits are needed to monitor the resolution of inflammation. Without timely treatment, infections may recur and potentially compromise tooth stability.

　　For daily care, it's important to brush teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush, rinse the mouth with warm saline after meals to remove food debris, avoid spicy or excessively hot foods to reduce gum irritation, and have regular dental check-ups. Prompt removal of tartar helps prevent recurrent gingival inflammation.