Does rinsing with salt water help when your gums are swollen?

We do not recommend it. Salt water mixed at the right concentration cannot replace treatment, though it may bring temporary relief. Concentrated salt water, on the other hand, irritates and dehydrates the gum tissue and backfires. On balance, mixing salt water to rinse with does more harm than good. Since the underlying cause of swollen gums is tartar and inflammation, if the swelling does not subside within 2 to 3 days or comes with pus or pain, do not try to get by with salt water - visit the clinic for gum treatment.