When gum tissue appears to cover a back tooth, it often indicates an underlying issue affecting the gum and tooth structure. Understanding the reasons helps in recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate care.
Understanding Why Gums Cover Back Teeth
A primary reason for gum tissue covering a back tooth, particularly a wisdom tooth, is pericoronitis. This occurs when a wisdom tooth partially erupts, allowing a gum flap (operculum) to form over part of the tooth’s chewing surface. Food particles, plaque, and bacteria can easily become trapped underneath, leading to inflammation and infection of the surrounding gum tissue.
Another cause for gum overgrowth is gingival hyperplasia, the excessive enlargement of gum tissue. Certain medications, including anti-seizure drugs (phenytoin), immunosuppressants (cyclosporine), and calcium channel blockers (nifedipine), commonly trigger this condition. These medications interfere with normal gum cell turnover, leading to tissue proliferation and increased volume around teeth.
Poor oral hygiene can also contribute to localized gum overgrowth by causing chronic inflammation. When plaque and tartar accumulate, gum tissue responds with an inflammatory reaction, sometimes resulting in swelling that makes the gum appear to cover more of the tooth. Genetic predispositions or hormonal changes, like those during pregnancy, can also influence gum tissue response and growth in some individuals.
Food impaction can also contribute to the appearance of a gum covering a tooth. When food particles, especially fibrous ones, become lodged between the tooth and gum, they can irritate the tissue. This irritation leads to localized swelling and inflammation, making the gum appear more prominent.
Recognizing Related Symptoms
When gum tissue covers a back tooth, several symptoms can arise. Individuals often experience localized pain or tenderness, ranging from a dull ache to a sharp, throbbing sensation. The gum tissue itself may appear red and swollen, indicating an inflammatory response to trapped debris or bacteria.
Eating may be challenging, with discomfort or pain when chewing or biting down on the affected side. An unpleasant taste or persistent bad breath (halitosis) frequently accompanies the condition due to bacteria and decaying food particles under the gum flap. In cases of infection, pus may discharge from beneath the gum tissue, signaling a more advanced inflammatory process.
Sometimes, pain can extend beyond the immediate area, radiating to the ear, jaw, or throat on the same side of the face. This referred pain indicates the inflammation’s severity and proximity to nerve pathways. Seek dental evaluation if symptoms persist, intensify, or are accompanied by fever, severe swelling, or difficulty opening the mouth, as these signs may point to a spreading infection.
Professional Care and Treatment
A dental professional will examine the affected area and may take X-rays to assess the tooth’s position and surrounding bone structure. This diagnostic step helps determine if the tooth is impacted or if other underlying issues contribute to gum overgrowth. Accurate diagnosis guides the most effective treatment strategy.
For pericoronitis, initial treatment often involves thoroughly cleaning and irrigating the area under the gum flap to remove trapped food debris and bacteria. If an active infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial spread and reduce inflammation. These measures aim to alleviate acute symptoms and prevent further complications.
In some instances, a minor surgical procedure called an operculectomy may remove the excess gum flap. This procedure eliminates the pocket where food and bacteria can accumulate, preventing recurrent pericoronitis. If the wisdom tooth is severely impacted or repeatedly causes inflammation, extraction might be recommended as a definitive solution.
Addressing gingival hyperplasia involves identifying the cause. If medication is the cause, the dentist may consult with the prescribing physician to explore alternative medications or dosage adjustments. In more severe cases where gum overgrowth significantly impacts oral health or function, a surgical procedure known as a gingivectomy can remove excess gum tissue, restoring a healthier gum contour.
Maintaining Oral Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices helps prevent issues with gum tissue covering back teeth. Thorough brushing twice daily, especially around back teeth and any existing gum flaps, helps remove plaque and food particles. Daily flossing is equally important for cleaning between teeth and along the gumline, where bacteria can easily accumulate.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also essential for early detection and prevention. These routine visits allow dental professionals to identify potential problems before they escalate and to remove stubborn plaque and tartar that at-home brushing cannot. Consistent professional care can significantly reduce the risk of gum inflammation and overgrowth.
For areas with a gum flap or hard-to-reach back teeth, specific cleaning techniques can be beneficial. Using a small-headed toothbrush or an interdental brush can improve access to these challenging spots. A water flosser can also effectively dislodge food debris and rinse bacteria from under gum flaps, promoting better hygiene in these susceptible areas.