Can mouthwash be used for swollen and painful gums?
Disease description:
I've been suffering from swollen and painful gums for the past few days, making it difficult to eat and causing great discomfort. I'm also very anxious about it, and now it's starting to affect my normal work. Can mouthwash be used for swollen and painful gums?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
When experiencing swollen and painful gums, mouthwash can be used to help alleviate symptoms. Mouthwashes are generally divided into hygiene-type and therapeutic-type. For patients with swollen and painful gums, therapeutic mouthwashes are recommended, such as povidone-iodine mouth rinse, chlorhexidine mouthwash, or compound borax mouth rinse. These products have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and analgesic properties that can help relieve gum discomfort. It is important to note that therapeutic mouthwashes should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may cause side effects. Additionally, mouthwash cannot replace tooth brushing; patients should maintain the habit of brushing their teeth twice daily, for at least two minutes each time. At the same time, avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods to prevent worsening of gum symptoms. If in doubt, please consult a healthcare provider.
