What should I do for swollen and painful gums due to excessive internal heat (fire)?

When experiencing swollen and painful gums caused by excessive internal heat (commonly referred to as "fire" in traditional Chinese medicine), the following measures can help alleviate symptoms: 1. Dietary adjustment: Avoid spicy, greasy, and irritating foods. Increase consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits such as bitter melon, celery, and pumpkin, which may help reduce internal heat and swelling. 2. Oral hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing teeth in the morning and evening, rinsing the mouth after meals, and using dental floss to remove food particles between teeth, thus reducing irritation to the gums. 3. Medication: Under a doctor's guidance, take traditional Chinese patent medicines with heat-clearing and detoxifying properties, such as Niuhuang Detoxification Tablets or Huanglian Shangqing Tablets. Antiseptic mouthwashes, such as warm salt water, can also be used to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. 4. Daily care: Go to bed early and wake up early; avoid staying up late. Quit smoking and alcohol consumption to maintain healthy lifestyle habits and a positive mood, which can aid in recovery. By following the above measures, swelling and pain in the gums caused by excessive internal heat can be effectively alleviated. If symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.