Why are my gums swollen between my teeth
A tight contact can trap food, while plaque and calculus inflame the margin; a cavity, cracked tooth or abscess can also create focal swelling.
The short answer
Swelling between teeth usually involves the small triangular gum papilla and often reflects local irritation or inflammation.. Clean the contact gently with floss or an appropriately sized interdental brush and avoid sharp objects that cut the papilla.
What can swelling between my teeth mean?
Clean the contact gently with floss or an appropriately sized interdental brush and avoid sharp objects that cut the papilla.
How can I clean the swollen gum safely?
Book an examination if the lump bleeds repeatedly, persists after cleaning, hurts, drains, or appears with tooth sensitivity or facial swelling.
When does swelling between teeth need dental care?
Ask whether the contact, gum pocket, tooth surface or root is responsible and what cleaning aid fits the space.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most useful first step?
Describe the exact location, timing and triggers of the symptom so the dentist can target the examination.
Can home care replace an examination?
Home care can reduce irritation or discomfort temporarily, but it cannot correct a structural problem or remove an infection.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.