Lower teeth hitting upper gums
Lower teeth touching or cutting the upper gum can indicate a traumatic bite, tooth position problem, swelling, or a change that needs examination.
The short answer
Lower teeth repeatedly contacting the upper gum is not a normal bite contact when it causes soreness, bleeding, or an ulcer. The cause may be tooth position, a deep overbite, gum swelling, or a recent change in the bite.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The lower incisors may contact the tissue behind the upper front teeth, called the palatal gingiva, when the vertical overlap is excessive or the teeth are angled unusually. A new filling, crown, orthodontic movement, tooth wear, or jaw clenching can alter the contact.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently with lukewarm water, avoid picking the area, and choose softer foods while arranging an examination. A dentist checks the bite with articulating paper, inspects the gum and teeth, and may use photographs or radiographs before adjusting a filling or planning orthodontic care.
When should you seek dental care?
Book dental care promptly if the contact persists, the gum is ulcerated, or chewing has changed. Seek urgent help for spreading swelling, fever, uncontrolled bleeding, or trouble breathing or swallowing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Is the injury caused by a deep overbite, a tooth restoration, tooth movement, gum swelling, or clenching? Ask whether bite adjustment, orthodontics, or treatment of gum disease is appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
Can the gum heal if the contact stops?
Minor irritation may settle after the cause is removed, but a persistent ulcer needs examination.
Should I file the tooth at home?
No. Tooth reshaping must be planned after checking enamel thickness, restorations, and the whole bite.