Mouth sore gum line

Location and appearance help narrow the cause: irritation is often beside a sharp edge or appliance, while plaque inflammation can cause redness and bleeding around several teeth. A pimple-like bump, pus, bad taste, or tooth sensitivity suggests a possible tooth source.

Rinse with lukewarm water, use a soft brush, clean gently between teeth, and avoid tobacco, alcohol-containing rinses, and foods that sting the area. Do not place aspirin or caustic chemicals on the sore.

Arrange an examination if the sore persists, recurs, enlarges, bleeds easily, or is associated with tooth pain. Seek urgent care for facial swelling, fever, spreading redness, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Ask whether the lesion is on the gum or tooth, whether plaque, trauma, decay, or an abscess is responsible, and whether a dental X-ray or periodontal examination is needed.