What causes gum to swell around tooth
what causes gum swelling around a tooth
The short answer
A swollen gum around one tooth may result from plaque, trapped food, gum disease, decay, trauma, or an infection near the root.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Plaque at the gum margin can inflame the gingiva, while decay, a cracked tooth, or a root infection can inflame deeper tissues. Food trapped between teeth and erupting wisdom teeth are other possibilities.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently with warm water, brush with a soft brush, and clean between the teeth without forcing an object into the swelling. Do not squeeze it or place aspirin directly on the gum.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange an examination if swelling lasts, returns, bleeds, or comes with pain, bad taste, pus, or a loose tooth. Facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing needs urgent attention.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling is in the gingiva, periodontal pocket, or tissue around the root. Ask whether you need a dental X-ray, cleaning, filling, root canal treatment, drainage, or treatment for an erupting tooth.
Frequently asked questions
Can home care replace an examination?
No. It can reduce irritation and plaque, but persistent or severe symptoms need a cause-focused assessment.
What may a dentist check?
The clinician may inspect the gums and teeth, test sensitivity or biting, and use imaging when the findings require it.