Gum Swelling: Causes, Treatments, and When to Extract Teeth

Q: Gum Swelling: Causes, Treatments, and When to Extract Teeth

Dear Ms. <br>Liang： Hello! I have two questions! 1. <br>Is the cavity too deep, having eroded to the nerve, causing the nerve to become necrotic and infected, resulting in swelling? 2. <br>Does this tooth have periodontal disease, leading to severe infection and swelling? Treatme

Gum swelling

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my tooth decay, which has progressed very deep, and now my gums are swollen.
I have seen a dentist who prescribed anti-inflammatory medication, but the swelling did not go down.
I went to the emergency department of a large hospital, and they prescribed antibiotics for me.
If my gums do not reduce in swelling, will I just have to wait for the swelling to subside before I can have the tooth extracted?

Liangliang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/17

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
Liang: Hello! I have two questions! 1.
Is the cavity too deep, having eroded to the nerve, causing the nerve to become necrotic and infected, resulting in swelling? 2.
Does this tooth have periodontal disease, leading to severe infection and swelling? Treatment is possible unless the bone surrounding the tooth has been extensively destroyed, in which case extraction may be necessary.
Therefore, please seek medical attention promptly for a speedy recovery! Take care!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dental Director

Reply Date: 2020/11/17

More Info

Gum swelling can be a concerning symptom, especially when it is associated with deep cavities or dental issues. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing persistent gum swelling related to a deep cavity in one of your teeth. This situation can arise from several underlying causes, including infection, inflammation, or even the presence of a dental abscess.

When a cavity is deep, it can reach the pulp of the tooth, leading to pulpitis, which is inflammation of the dental pulp. This can cause the surrounding gum tissue to become inflamed and swollen. If the infection progresses, it can lead to the formation of an abscess, which is a localized collection of pus that can cause significant swelling and discomfort. The fact that you have already been prescribed anti-inflammatory medication and antibiotics indicates that your dentist is concerned about a potential infection.

In cases where the swelling does not subside despite treatment, it is essential to consider further evaluation. The persistent swelling could indicate that the infection has not been adequately addressed, or there may be additional complications, such as a fractured tooth or a more extensive periodontal issue. If the antibiotics are not effective in reducing the swelling, it may be necessary to revisit your dentist for a more thorough examination, which could include X-rays to assess the extent of the decay and any potential bone involvement.

If the swelling continues and is accompanied by pain or discomfort, it may be necessary to consider extraction of the affected tooth. Extraction is often the last resort, but in cases where the tooth is severely compromised and cannot be saved through root canal treatment or other restorative procedures, it may be the best option to prevent further complications.
In the meantime, you can take steps to manage your symptoms. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial; gently brushing and flossing around the swollen area can help keep it clean. Rinsing with warm salt water may also provide temporary relief and help reduce inflammation. However, it is essential to avoid any aggressive manipulation of the swollen gum tissue, as this could exacerbate the situation.

Ultimately, the decision to extract a tooth should be made in consultation with your dentist, who can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the best course of action. If the swelling persists or worsens, or if you experience increased pain, fever, or other systemic symptoms, seek immediate dental care. Your oral health is vital, and addressing these issues promptly can help prevent more severe complications in the future.

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