Health Tip: Why Gums Swell

(HealthDay News) -- Swollen gums are relatively common, but can signal an underlying health problem.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers this list of possible causes:

• Having an inflamed gum condition called gingivitis.
• Having a fungal or viral infection.
• Being malnourished.
• Wearing dentures that don't fit properly.
• Being pregnant.
• Being sensitive to a mouthwash or toothpaste.
• Having scurvy.
• Experiencing a side effect of certain medications.