With swollen gums comes a lot of pain, discomfort, and tenderness. Not to mention finding a swollen lump of flesh around your tooth can be quite disorienting. It can put your brain in overdrive, making you think of all the worst outcomes. You might even find yourself asking, “Why is my gum swollen around one tooth?” However, rather than panicking or poking the bulging gum with your tongue, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. Although to find out what could be causing the swelling in the first place, continue reading this blog.
Why Is My Gum Swollen Around One Tooth?
Most cases of swollen gums are attributed to poor oral hygiene. Every time you skip a day of flossing or forget to brush your teeth, the bacteria residing in your mouth sink in deeper, chipping away at your teeth and gums. This, in turn, causes a lot of damage which can give way to gingivitis and other forms of gum disease.
At times, the swelling could also be a result of an oral infection like a dental abscess or a certain vitamin deficiency affecting your immune system. Ultimately, as long as you pay good attention to your dental health, you won’t have to worry about your gums doubling in size around one tooth.
Symptoms of a Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is known to be incredibly painful. Since it is a small pocket filled with pus and air, when it grows around your tooth, the pressure can make it feel like your entire mouth is throbbing. But that is exactly why it is critical to seek immediate dental attention. Letting the bacteria fester inside your gums can lead to harmful results, with the effects reaching your tooth and body. Here are some important signs you need to look out for in case of a dental abscess:
- Throbbing toothache
- Fever
- Swollen face and lymph nodes (cheek, jaw, neck)
- Bad breath or taste in the mouth
- Heightened tooth sensitivity
- Difficulty chewing or eating
- Red or tender gums with a white center
Treatment
The only way to treat an abscess is by getting it drained. Your periodontist will carefully make an incision on the swollen area and allow it to drain. Once the salty fluid has all but leaked out, the swollen pocket will instantly deflate, causing extreme relief.
However, if your gum is swollen around one tooth for another reason, you might want to consult your dentist. In case of gum disease, you will need to undergo surgery or take anti-inflammatory, pain relief medications. Salt water solution is also a great way to disinfect the gums and kill the bacteria present in the folds of your mouth.
Closing Words
All in all, if your gum is swollen around just one tooth, chances are it is because of poor oral hygiene. Whether it’s a dental abscess or food remains stuck between your teeth, swollen gums can be quite painful. If the discomfort does not go away on its own in a few days, contact Signature Smiles for more information at either of the following locations:
- Irving Location: 3654 N Belt Line Rd, Irving, TX 75062, United States
Contact Number: (214) 307-4715 - Plano Location: 5072 W Plano Pkwy Suite 270, Plano, TX 75093, United States
Contact Number: (214) 307-4755 - DeSoto Location: 726 N Hampton Rd, DeSoto, TX 75115, United States
Contact Number: (469) 643-4155