Why are my gums protruding
Gums can look prominent from inflammation, excess tissue, tooth position, or an eruption problem, so an examination separates the causes.
The short answer
Prominent gums may be swollen, enlarged, or positioned high over a tooth because of plaque, medicines, orthodontics, inherited shape, or an unerupted tooth.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Clean gently with a soft brush and do not cut, press, or puncture the tissue; note whether the change is sudden, localized, painful, or linked to a new medicine.
What can you do next?
Seek care for a growing lump, pus, fever, loose teeth, severe pain, or swelling that affects swallowing or breathing.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask whether the tissue is inflamed or structurally enlarged, whether a tooth is trapped beneath it, and whether radiographs are needed.
What should you ask the dentist?
Healthy gingiva is generally firm and does not enlarge rapidly.
Frequently asked questions
They may shrink when plaque inflammation is controlled, but persistent enlargement needs a cause-specific assessment.
Does protruding gum always mean gum disease?