Your smile is your signature, a reflection of confidence and poise, but what happens when you notice an unsettling change, like gum tissue creeping over your back tooth?
This phenomenon, often alarming, prompts the question: why is my gum growing over my back tooth? Whether it’s discomfort or a cosmetic concern, understanding gum overgrowth and its causes is the first step to restoring your radiant smile.
With expert care from a Toronto dentist, you can address pericoronitis or other issues and achieve a confident, healthy look.
What it means when your gum tissue covers a tooth
Gum overgrowth, or gingival hypertrophy, occurs when excess gum tissue covers part of a tooth, often a molar. This can alter your smile’s aesthetics and cause discomfort.
Patients often ask, why is my gum growing over my back tooth? It’s typically linked to specific dental conditions or habits, which a skilled dentist in Toronto can diagnose and treat.
Common symptoms: Possible signs to watch for
When gums begin to cover a tooth, you might observe changes such as puffiness, sensitivity, or mild discomfort, particularly while brushing.
These may indicate an underlying oral health concern. It’s advisable to consult a dental professional for a thorough assessment and appropriate care.
Is it a dental emergency?
In some cases, gum overgrowth may require urgent attention, especially if accompanied by severe pain or swelling.
Understanding “why is my gum growing over my back tooth” can help determine if immediate care is needed. A Toronto dentist can assess whether it’s an emergency or a manageable condition.
Most Common Causes of Gum Growing Over Back Teeth
Several factors can trigger gum tissue to grow over the back teeth, especially around the wisdom tooth area. Here are the most common causes patients should be aware of.
- Erupting or impacted wisdom tooth: Wisdom teeth, often emerging in adulthood, can cause gums to grow over partially erupted teeth, leading to pericoronitis.
- Poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup: Inadequate brushing or flossing allows plaque to accumulate, causing poor oral hygiene-related gum overgrowth.
- Gum irritation or trauma from food/brushing: Hard foods or aggressive brushing can lead to gum irritation, triggering tissue overgrowth.
- Gingival hyperplasia: Certain medications or conditions cause gingival hyperplasia, enlarging gum tissue.
- Orthodontic appliances or dental restorations: Braces or poorly fitted restorations can irritate gums, prompting overgrowth.
When gum growth becomes a problem
Persistent swelling, pus, or fever may indicate an infection or abscess, requiring prompt attention.
These symptoms can compromise your oral health and aesthetics, making it critical to understand “why is my gum growing over my back tooth”.
Risk of pericoronitis (especially with wisdom teeth)
Pericoronitis is a common issue when gums cover partially erupted wisdom teeth, trapping food and bacteria. This can lead to pain and infection, impacting your confidence and smile.
Chronic inflammation and tissue damage
Untreated gum overgrowth can cause chronic inflammation, potentially damaging surrounding tissues. Early intervention by a dentist can prevent long-term issues and enhance your smile’s appearance.
Can Gum Growth Go Away on Its Own?
Whether gum growth resolves naturally depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, it may shrink with improved hygiene, but others may require professional treatment.
Temporary vs persistent cases
Minor gum overgrowth due to irritation may resolve with improved care, but persistent cases often require professional treatment. Knowing “why is my gum growing over my back tooth” helps determine the best approach.
What can improve it naturally
Gentle brushing, flossing, and saltwater rinses can reduce mild inflammation. However, these are not substitutes for professional care when symptoms persist.
When home care isn’t enough
If gum overgrowth continues, professional intervention is necessary to address underlying causes and restore your smile’s elegance.
How dentists treat gum overgrowth
- Cleaning and scaling to remove plaque: Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar, addressing poor oral hygiene.
- Wisdom tooth extraction: Removing impacted wisdom teeth can resolve gum overgrowth and prevent pericoronitis.
- Laser gum contouring: Advanced laser gum contouring reshapes gums for a polished, aesthetic look.
- Treating underlying causes: Adjusting medications or orthodontic appliances can prevent further gingival hyperplasia.
Book a gum consultation with Downtown Dentistry
Restore your confident smile with fast relief and expert evaluation at Downtown Dentistry. Curious about “why is my gum growing over my back tooth?”
Our team offers a Gum Graft Cost Toronto consultation, including a free iTero scan to assess your gums. Benefit from our teeth whitening offer to enhance your smile’s brilliance.
With laser gum contouring and personalized post root canal care, we prioritize aesthetics and transformation. Book an appointment today for a seamless experience with a premier dental team!
Frequently asked questions about gums growing over teeth
Q. Is it serious if gums grow over teeth?
A. It depends on the cause, but persistent cases can lead to infection or gum disease.
Q. Can I fix it at home?
A. Mild cases may improve with better hygiene, but professional care is often needed.
Q. Will it go away on its own?
A. Temporary irritation may resolve, but chronic overgrowth requires treatment.
Q. Do I need antibiotics?
A. Antibiotics may be prescribed for infections like pericoronitis.
Q. Will I lose the tooth?
A. With timely care, tooth loss is unlikely, preserving your smile’s aesthetics.
