Sensitive gum around one tooth
A tender gum around one tooth can result from trapped plaque, trauma, a pocket, or infection in the tooth, so the local cause should be checked.
What is the direct answer?
A tender gum around one tooth can result from trapped plaque, trauma, a pocket, or infection in the tooth, so the local cause should be checked.
What does this question mean?
The gingiva around one tooth may become sore when plaque inflames the margin, food is trapped, brushing is forceful, or the tooth has a cavity, crack, or root infection. Pain on biting or sensitivity to temperature can point to involvement beyond the gum surface.
What can you do next?
Brush gently with a soft brush, clean between that tooth carefully, and rinse after food. Avoid picking the gum and note whether bleeding, swelling, temperature pain, biting pain, or a bad taste occurs.
When should you seek dental care?
Book dental care if symptoms persist, recur, or include swelling, pus, fever, toothache, a loose tooth, or pain when biting. Facial swelling or difficulty swallowing needs urgent help.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask the dentist to check the gum pocket, tooth surface, bite, and pulp, and whether an X-ray or professional cleaning is needed to identify the source.
Frequently asked questions
Why is only one gum sore?
A single tooth can collect plaque or food differently, or it can have a local tooth or gum problem that affects neighboring tissue less.
Should I floss a tender area?
Clean gently rather than abandoning the area, but stop forcing the floss and arrange an examination if pain or bleeding persists.