What causes swollen gums around tooth
Swollen gum around one tooth may be caused by plaque, trapped food, trauma, a gum pocket, decay, or infection from the tooth..
The short answer
Swollen gum around one tooth may be caused by plaque, trapped food, trauma, a gum pocket, decay, or infection from the tooth.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The gum is the soft tissue forming a collar around each tooth; localized swelling means the inflammation or fluid is concentrated in one area.
What can you do next?
Clean gently with a soft brush and interdental cleaning, note pain or discharge, and arrange an examination. The dentist may inspect the gum, test the tooth, and take an X-ray.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt care for pus, increasing pain, fever, facial swelling, or difficulty swallowing, and do not lance the swelling yourself.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the tooth needs gum treatment, a filling, root canal treatment, drainage, or removal, and how the cause will be confirmed.
Frequently asked questions
Could this have another cause?
Yes. An examination is needed when different dental or oral conditions can produce similar symptoms.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Bring a list of medicines, relevant medical conditions, when the symptom began, and anything that makes it better or worse.