Red gum around crown

A red gum around a crown can result from plaque irritation, a crown edge that traps debris, trauma, cement, decay or infection and needs an examination.

The short answer

A crown covers a prepared tooth or implant component. Redness in the surrounding gingiva means the tissue is inflamed, but the cause may be local irritation, a marginal gap, excess cement, plaque, decay at the edge or infection inside the tooth.

What is the direct answer?

What does this question mean?

The dentist checks the crown margin, gum pocket, bite, contact with neighbouring teeth and the tooth’s response to tests. Radiographs may show decay, bone changes or root problems that cannot be seen directly.

What can you do next?

Clean gently along the crown and gum with a soft brush and suitable interdental aid. Do not scrape the margin or place concentrated chemicals on the tissue, and note bleeding, pain, taste or swelling.

When should you seek dental care?

Book an examination if redness persists, bleeds repeatedly, becomes tender or is associated with bad taste or looseness. Swelling, fever or severe pain needs urgent care.

What should you ask the dentist?

Ask whether the margin, bite, cement, gum pocket or underlying tooth explains the redness, and whether cleaning, adjustment, repair, replacement or root treatment is needed.