Gum swelling between front teeth
Swelling between the front teeth often reflects plaque-related gum inflammation, trapped food, trauma, or a localized infection.
The short answer
Swelling between front teeth usually affects the interdental papilla, the small gum peak between teeth, and its cause may be irritation, gum disease, or infection.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The interdental papilla can enlarge when plaque, calculus, food, floss trauma, a sharp filling edge, or orthodontic pressure irritates it. A deeper periodontal pocket or an abscess from a tooth can also cause a localized bump.
What can you do next?
Brush gently along the gumline and clean between the teeth with floss or an appropriately sized interdental brush. Do not cut, squeeze, or repeatedly traumatize the swollen tissue.
When should you seek dental care?
Book a dental visit if swelling lasts, bleeds repeatedly, is painful, drains, or is associated with bad taste or tooth sensitivity. Fever, facial swelling, or trouble swallowing needs urgent care.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling is in the gum papilla, comes from a periodontal pocket, or is draining from a tooth. Ask whether probing or a focused radiograph is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Trapped food can inflame the papilla, but persistent swelling should be checked for calculus, a pocket, or a tooth-related infection.
Should I stop flossing?
Do not force floss into swollen tissue. A dentist or hygienist can show the right technique and select an interdental aid.
What if the bump keeps returning?