Swelling of gums in between teeth

The tissue between two teeth is called the interdental papilla. It can enlarge when bacterial plaque irritates the gingiva, when a sharp food fragment presses into it, or when infection drains from a tooth or periodontal pocket.

Gently clean the space with dental floss or an interdental brush, then brush with fluoride toothpaste. Do not cut, squeeze, or puncture the swelling; a dentist may remove trapped debris, clean calculus, test the tooth, and take an X-ray if decay or an abscess is suspected.

Arrange an examination if the swelling lasts more than a few days, returns, bleeds repeatedly, or comes with tooth pain, bad taste, pus, or looseness. Seek urgent care for facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing.

Ask whether the swelling is from gingivitis, a periodontal pocket, decay between the teeth, or an infection at the root. Ask whether you need periodontal measurements, a bitewing X-ray, professional cleaning, a filling, or treatment for an abscess.