Gum Swollen Around One Tooth?
Gum swollen around one tooth?
Localized swelling around one tooth is a fairly common occurrence. However, there can be many different causes. Certain types of gum swelling are relatively benign and tend to heal on their own, while other types can indicate concerning dental problems. In this article, we will discuss why you may be experiencing swollen gum tissue and what can be done to bring your gums back to a healthy condition.
Why is my gum swollen around one tooth?
First, it’s essential to understand that gum swelling around one tooth often has different causes than more widespread gum swelling. So, what could be the cause of such localized swelling? Here are the most likely possibilities:
Irritation: Occasionally, gum tissue can become irritated by an external source. Some common sources of irritation include:
• Aggressive brushing or flossing: brushing and flossing should be done diligently, but not with excessive force. Using a hard bristle brush or applying too much pressure can damage the delicate gum tissue.
• Impaction: Impaction is just a medical term that has a similar meaning to the word “lodged.” In dentistry, impaction typically involves something getting stuck between the tooth and gum tissue. Food particles, pieces of floss, and toothbrush bristles are common culprits.
Tooth issues: In some cases, patients come to us seeking a solution to their gum problem and we determine that the issue originates with a nearby tooth.
• Cracked tooth: A cracked tooth can occur without the patient even realizing it, especially if the damage has taken place below the gumline. Tooth damage of this nature can lead to a gum infection and swelling.
• Crown of filling problem: An ill-fitting crown or filling can create a space for bacteria to thrive, leading to gum inflammation over time.
Periodontal disease (gum disease): Periodontal disease is a common cause of gum inflammation. While it often presents itself as gum swelling across multiple teeth, it can also be isolated to a smaller area.
• Gingivitis: The earliest stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis results from plaque buildup on the teeth and below the gumline, which creates gum tissue irritation. Gingivitis can be limited to a single tooth if that tooth is unusually difficult to clean.
• Periodontal disease: If left untreated, gingivitis can progress, damaging the gum and bone tissue. Eventually, periodontal disease can result in gum recession and tooth loss.
Gum swelling treatments
There are several treatments for gum swelling around one tooth. The treatment we recommend is based on the underlying cause:
• Particle removal: In cases where the gum is irritated by a food particle or other object, we will remove the particle directly or during a periodontal cleaning.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics can be used as a stand-alone treatment, but are also commonly used in tandem with another treatment.
• Periodontal cleanings: Periodontal cleanings can remove plaque buildup below the gumline and treat early-stage gingivitis.
• Root planing: Root planing is often called deep cleaning and involves a more thorough cleaning procedure. During the cleaning process, the tooth roots are planed so that they are smooth. This decreases gum irritation and encourages the gum tissue to reattach to the tooth.
• LANAP laser treatment: LANAP laser treatment produces results similar to traditional periodontal disease surgery but is less painful and allows for faster recovery time. LANAP is designed to remove bacteria and damaged tissue from below the gumline, allowing your swollen gums to heal.
Are swollen gums around one tooth serious?
No two cases are the same. Gum swelling around one tooth can be relatively minor or a warning sign that more significant problems are just around the corner. That’s why it's so important that you seek out a professional opinion. Your periodontist is a gum expert who is trained to find the source of your gum swelling and provide an effective treatment.
We can provide you with peace of mind
Discovering you have gum swelling can be concerning. No matter the cause, it is always a sign that your gums are not behaving normally. It’s important to find the cause as soon as possible so that your condition can be treated effectively. That’s where we come in! Our office has been helping gum patients in Sacramento for over 25 years and we have a long-track record of success. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you and helping to put your mind at ease.