How to get rid of gum overgrowth
Gum overgrowth is treated by removing the cause, controlling inflammation, and reshaping excess gum tissue when needed.
What is the direct answer?
Gum overgrowth is treated by removing the cause, controlling inflammation, and reshaping excess gum tissue when needed.
What does this question mean?
Gum overgrowth means excess gingival tissue covers more of a tooth or oral surface than expected. Plaque-related inflammation, orthodontic appliances, mouth breathing, inherited conditions, and some medicines can contribute.
What can you do next?
Brush along the gum margin with a soft brush, clean between teeth, and have hardened calculus removed professionally. The dentist may review medicines with your prescriber, treat periodontal inflammation, and perform gingivectomy or another periodontal procedure when tissue remains enlarged.
When should you seek dental care?
Book an examination if the tissue bleeds, makes cleaning difficult, covers an erupting tooth, changes quickly, or returns after cleaning. Seek urgent care for rapidly spreading swelling, severe pain, fever, or trouble swallowing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask what is enlarging the gum, whether there is periodontal pocketing or calculus, and whether a medicine review is appropriate. Ask how much tissue can be treated without harming the gum attachment or bone.
Frequently asked questions
Will cleaning remove all gum overgrowth?
Cleaning can reduce inflammatory swelling, but fibrous or medicine-related tissue may need further treatment.
Can I cut the gum at home?
No. Self-cutting can injure tissue and introduce infection; the cause should be assessed clinically.