Swollen gum and bleeding around tooth

A swollen gum that bleeds around one tooth can result from plaque, trapped food, gum disease, trauma, decay, or infection near the tooth.

The gum around one tooth can swell when plaque or food debris irritates the gingival margin, when a sharp edge injures it, or when inflammation extends from the tooth root. Bleeding occurs when inflamed gum tissue becomes fragile during brushing or probing. The dentist will inspect the gum pocket, tooth surface, filling or crown margins, and nearby tissues. They may test the tooth with cold or tapping, measure pocket depth, and take an X-ray when decay, bone loss, or a root infection is possible.

Gently brush the area with a soft brush and clean between the teeth without snapping floss into the gum. Rinse with water after meals, avoid tobacco, and do not press aspirin or other tablets onto the gum.

Arrange a dental visit when swelling or bleeding persists, recurs, or is linked to pain, sensitivity, bad taste, or a loose tooth. Facial swelling, fever, or trouble swallowing or breathing requires urgent care.

Ask whether the problem is in the gum, the tooth, or both, and whether an X-ray or periodontal measurements are needed. Ask what cleaning, filling, root canal treatment, drainage, or extraction would address the identified cause.