What Causes A Swollen Gum Around One Tooth?

When the gums around a single tooth swell, it can be excruciating and sensitive. Ignoring this small problem could lead to much bigger problems with your teeth. Knowing what causes the gums around a single tooth to swell is important so you can act quickly and correctly. Now, we’ll look at the possible reasons Springtown Family Dentist suggests for the same.

Reasons for a Swollen Gum

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first step of gum disease. It is marked by gum inflammation. Germs, bacteria, and not caring for your teeth properly can lead to gingivitis. It shows up as swollen, red gums that bleed easily, especially around a single tooth. If you don’t treat mild gingivitis, it can turn into a more serious gum disease like periodontitis.

Periodontitis

When gum disease turns into periodontitis, the infection has spread to the bone and other tissues that hold the teeth in place. Periodontitis causes gums to swell and pull away from the teeth, as well as bad breath and loose teeth. The tooth and surrounding areas are usually cleaned very well as part of the treatment process.

Abscess

When germs attack the tooth and make a sac of pus, this is called a tooth abscess or infection. When germs get to the pulp, the part inside the tooth with nerves and blood vessels, they cause a dental abscess. Dental abscesses usually show up as red, swollen lips, unbearable pain, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth.

Trauma

When your teeth or gums hurt, this is called trauma. It could happen if you bite down on something hard, hurt yourself playing sports, or brush your teeth too hard. You might feel pain, soreness around the affected area, and swelling. Sometimes, the swelling will go down independently, but you may need to see a Springtown Family Dentist or another for proper treatment.

Impaction

An impaction is a tooth that doesn’t fully come from the gums. It is also called an impacted tooth. It happens more with back teeth. Plaque on the gums can cause pain and swelling when a tooth is stuck in the gums. In the worst cases, a cyst growth could happen. Taking the affected tooth out is the only way to eliminate the pain.

Recession

You can see more of the tooth and its root when gums shrink. It is known as a recession. Some reasons for this are gum disease, brushing too hard, genetics, and hormone changes. When gums pull away from the teeth, the visible root can become sensitive to changes in temperature. Gum grafting may cover the visible root and stop it from receding even more.

Poor Work

When dental work, like a crown or filling, doesn’t fit right, the gums around one tooth can swell. If dental restorations aren’t shaped properly or if there are spaces between the restoration and the natural tooth that let food and bacteria build-up, gum swelling can happen. The repair may need to be fixed or replaced, depending on the situation.

Final Thoughts

Finally, swelling of the gums around a single tooth could mean several dental health issues. No matter the cause, you should see a dentist as soon as possible for an exam and treatment to avoid more problems.

It will also help you improve your mouth health. Taking care of your teeth and gums by brushing, flossing, and visiting Springtown Family Dentist regularly is the best way to avoid gum disease.