Gums below teeth dark red

Dark-red gum below a tooth often reflects inflammation from plaque or calculus, but trauma, infection, and normal pigmentation can look different.

Gingiva is the gum tissue surrounding and supporting teeth. Inflamed blood vessels can make it appear dark red, especially with tenderness, bleeding, swelling, or bad taste.

Brush gently along the margin and clean between the teeth without forcing floss into the tissue. Note when the change began and whether it follows injury or dental work.

Seek prompt care for increasing swelling, pus, spontaneous bleeding, fever, facial swelling, or pain on biting.

Ask whether the colour reflects inflammation, bruising, pigmentation, or infection and whether periodontal measurements or an X-ray are needed.