Gum tissue covering the chewing surface of a back tooth is a common complaint, often signaling a specific underlying issue. This symptom typically involves a localized flap of gum that partially hides the tooth crown, creating an irritating pocket. This occurrence can quickly lead to discomfort, especially when biting down or cleaning the area effectively. The causes usually relate to a tooth that has not fully emerged or, less frequently, to generalized tissue enlargement. This article identifies the likely reasons for this gum intrusion and provides guidance on self-care and professional intervention.
Understanding the Gum Flap Over Your Tooth
The most frequent scenario for a gum flap covering a back tooth involves the eruption of a third molar, commonly known as a wisdom tooth. When a wisdom tooth only partially emerges, it leaves a vulnerable flap of tissue over the chewing surface called an operculum. This soft tissue covering creates a dark, moist space where food debris, plaque, and bacteria easily become trapped.
The resulting bacterial buildup often leads to a localized infection and inflammation known as pericoronitis. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe pain, often accompanied by swelling in the gum tissue. Individuals may also experience an unpleasant taste or foul odor resulting from pus leaking beneath the flap. Severe cases can cause difficulty opening the mouth (trismus) or swelling that spreads to the cheek or throat.
Causes Beyond Erupting Teeth
While eruption is the primary cause for a localized gum flap, other conditions result in gum tissue overgrowth, often called gingival hyperplasia. This enlargement is a less common cause for an isolated flap but accounts for generalized gum swelling that may cover teeth.
One significant category is drug-induced gingival enlargement, a side effect of certain prescription medications. Drugs like anti-seizure medications, immunosuppressants, and specific calcium channel blockers can stimulate gum tissue growth. These cases often present as firm, pale pink tissue that is not typically tender or prone to bleeding, unlike inflammation caused by infection.
Another common cause is inflammatory enlargement resulting from inadequate oral hygiene. When plaque and tartar accumulate, the body’s inflammatory response causes the gums to become tender, red, and swollen, occasionally leading to tissue overgrowth. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy, can also increase the body’s inflammatory response to plaque, leading to gum enlargement.
Managing Pain and Preventing Infection at Home
While waiting to see a dental professional, several temporary measures can help manage the pain and slow the progression of infection. Rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater is a highly recommended first step due to its natural disinfectant properties. A solution made by dissolving about one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water should be swished around the affected area for 30 seconds multiple times a day.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be effective in reducing both discomfort and inflammation. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek near the painful area for 10 to 15 minutes can also help numb the pain and reduce localized swelling. To prevent further irritation, maintain gentle oral hygiene and avoid eating hard or crunchy foods that could traumatize the inflamed gum flap.
When Professional Intervention Is Needed
Seeking prompt professional evaluation is necessary, especially if symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen rapidly. The dentist will assess the severity of the condition and determine the underlying cause, often using dental X-rays to check the position of the back tooth. For mild cases, initial treatment involves a thorough cleaning, where the dentist irrigates the area beneath the gum flap to flush out trapped bacteria and debris. If the infection is more extensive, a course of oral antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, may be prescribed to control bacterial growth.
For recurrent issues where the tooth is otherwise healthy, a minor surgical procedure called an operculectomy may be recommended. This involves the precise removal of the excess gum flap to eliminate the pocket where food and bacteria collect. The most permanent solution, particularly if the wisdom tooth is impacted or poorly positioned, is extraction. Immediate attention is required if signs of a spreading infection appear, such as fever, inability to swallow, or facial swelling extending into the cheek or neck.