question-icon

What Causes Swollen Gums That Bleeds And Leads To Bad Breath?

default
Posted on Wed, 5 Feb 2014
Question: Hey, I have a problem with my gums. On the back far left side of my gums its a Lil swollen and it has a very tender feel when I smile (sometimes) and when I eat it hurts and they bleed. Its causing me REALLY bad breath and ppl can smell it from far away even when I'm just breathing through my nose. On my far right back of gums its a bit swollen and its not as much painful or anything and I dont bleed that much. What should I do? I rinse with Listerine but it hurts and stings bad when I do, is that a good thing? What do u think it is? And if I go to a dentist how will they help with my problem?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (1 hour later)
Brief Answer: Please, see a dentist. Detailed Answer: Hi and thank you so much for this query. I am so sorry to hear about these ulcers you have in your mouth and the bad breathe that makes you feel so uncomfortable. From all the information you have provided, there is an active infection going on in your mouth. This causes a purulent collection and secretion which causes this bad odor. I strongly recommend that you meet and get evaluated by a dentist. The treatment would consist in examining the infection and making the decision to either drain it through minor surgery and or antibiotics that would clear off this infection, treat the ulcer and restore your fresh breathe. Listerine would not be able too clear up this infection all by itself. Though it can kill a good number of germs, it doesn't penetrate deep to all the areas to be able to guarantee complete sterilization that would lead to healing. Also, I will encourage you to avoid consuming sugar containing foods, brush regularly at least morning and evening, continue listerine and pain medications like Tylenol and Ibuprofen while you gain sometime to meet with your dentist. I hope this addresses your query fully. Thank you so much for using our services and please feel free to ask for clarifications if need be. I wish you the best of health. Dr. Ditah, MD.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Chobufo Ditah

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 6323 Questions

Ask me a question
premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Ask an Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist
Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
backtotop2
What Causes Swollen Gums That Bleeds And Leads To Bad Breath?

Brief Answer: Please, see a dentist. Detailed Answer: Hi and thank you so much for this query. I am so sorry to hear about these ulcers you have in your mouth and the bad breathe that makes you feel so uncomfortable. From all the information you have provided, there is an active infection going on in your mouth. This causes a purulent collection and secretion which causes this bad odor. I strongly recommend that you meet and get evaluated by a dentist. The treatment would consist in examining the infection and making the decision to either drain it through minor surgery and or antibiotics that would clear off this infection, treat the ulcer and restore your fresh breathe. Listerine would not be able too clear up this infection all by itself. Though it can kill a good number of germs, it doesn't penetrate deep to all the areas to be able to guarantee complete sterilization that would lead to healing. Also, I will encourage you to avoid consuming sugar containing foods, brush regularly at least morning and evening, continue listerine and pain medications like Tylenol and Ibuprofen while you gain sometime to meet with your dentist. I hope this addresses your query fully. Thank you so much for using our services and please feel free to ask for clarifications if need be. I wish you the best of health. Dr. Ditah, MD.