Gum inflammation on one tooth
Inflammation beside one tooth often comes from trapped plaque, calculus, food, a deep cavity, a crack, or infection and needs examination if it persists.
What is the direct answer?
Inflammation beside one tooth often comes from trapped plaque, calculus, food, a deep cavity, a crack, or infection and needs examination if it persists.
A clinical assessment identifies the affected structure and selects treatment for the underlying cause.
What does this question mean?
The swollen tissue may be marginal gingiva, the gum between teeth, or tissue over a partly erupted tooth. A rough filling edge or foreign body can also cause a local reaction.
A clinical assessment identifies the affected structure and selects treatment for the underlying cause.
What can you do next?
Gently clean around and between the tooth and its neighbour, rinse with warm water, and avoid sharp objects or irritants. Do not squeeze a swelling.
A clinical assessment identifies the affected structure and selects treatment for the underlying cause.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt care for a pimple-like swelling, facial swelling, fever, severe pain, or difficulty opening the mouth.
A clinical assessment identifies the affected structure and selects treatment for the underlying cause.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the source is the gum, tooth, or a trapped object, and whether cleaning, a filling, root canal treatment, drainage, or another procedure is needed.
A clinical assessment identifies the affected structure and selects treatment for the underlying cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can the symptom settle on its own?
Mild irritation can settle when its trigger is removed, but recurring or worsening symptoms need assessment.
What happens at a dental visit?
The dentist reviews the history, examines the mouth, performs relevant tests, and explains treatment choices.