Hard swollen gum
A hard, swollen gum area is usually caused by inflamed tissue, trapped debris, an infection, or a tooth erupting beneath the gum.
What is the direct answer?
A hard, swollen gum area is usually caused by inflamed tissue, trapped debris, an infection, or a tooth erupting beneath the gum.
What does this question mean?
The gum surrounds the teeth and covers the jawbone; firmness may come from inflamed tissue, an abscess, a bony prominence, or an erupting tooth.
What can you do next?
Brush gently, clean between teeth, and use a lukewarm salt-water rinse; never squeeze or puncture the lump.
When should you seek dental care?
See a dentist if it persists, grows, recurs, or hurts; urgent care is needed for fever, facial swelling, or trouble swallowing or breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which tooth or tissue is involved and whether cleaning, drainage, a filling, root canal treatment, extraction, or monitoring is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can this have more than one cause?
Yes. An examination distinguishes similar dental and oral causes.
What should I bring to an appointment?
Bring when it began, triggers, visible changes, medicines, and recent dental treatment.