Swollen gums growing over teeth
Swollen gum tissue can cover part of a tooth when inflammation, infection, or an eruption problem enlarges the gingiva.
The short answer
Gum tissue growing over a tooth needs an examination because the cause may be plaque-related inflammation, a gum pocket, medication-related enlargement, or tissue over a partly erupted tooth.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
This describes enlarged gingiva, not new tooth growth. The gum may feel tender, bleed, trap food, or form a flap around a tooth that has not fully emerged.
What can you do next?
Brush gently with a soft toothbrush, clean between the teeth, and rinse with warm salt water for comfort. Do not cut, puncture, or burn the tissue, and do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange dental care soon, especially if swelling persists, pus, bad taste, fever, facial swelling, or difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing occurs.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask what is enlarging the gum, whether an X-ray is needed, and whether treatment involves professional cleaning, drainage, gum reshaping, or management of an erupting tooth.
Frequently asked questions
Can swollen gums cover a wisdom tooth?
Yes. A gum flap can partly cover an erupting wisdom tooth and trap food and bacteria.
Will brushing remove the extra tissue?
Cleaning can reduce inflammation, but persistent excess tissue needs diagnosis and may need dental treatment.