Swelling Below Lower Canine Tooth: Causes and Solutions

Swelling beneath the gums of the lower canine teeth?

Four days ago, I visited the dentist, who diagnosed me with mild periodontal disease.
They performed a dental cleaning and advised me to have regular cleanings and follow-up appointments for monitoring.
After the cleaning, my gums were slightly swollen and painful for a day or two, but now the swelling and pain have mostly subsided.
However, the day before yesterday, I noticed some swelling and pain at the bottom of the outer side of my lower canine tooth, with a small white spot above it.
I don’t experience pain while eating, but I do feel some discomfort when my mouth rubs against it while speaking.

Miss Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/07

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

There is some swelling and pain below the outer side of the lower canine tooth, along with a small white spot.
This may indicate an infection or inflammation at the apex of the canine root.
It is recommended to consult a dentist for further diagnosis and treatment.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/06/07

More Info

Swelling below the lower canine tooth can be concerning, especially after a recent dental cleaning and diagnosis of mild periodontal disease. The symptoms you describe, including swelling, pain, and the presence of a white spot, could be indicative of several underlying issues. Here’s a breakdown of potential causes and solutions based on your situation.

Possible Causes
1. Gingivitis or Periodontitis: Since you have been diagnosed with mild periodontal disease, the swelling could be a result of inflammation in the gums (gingivitis) or deeper periodontal issues. This inflammation can lead to swelling and discomfort, especially after dental procedures.

2. Abscess Formation: The white spot you mentioned could be a sign of an abscess, which is a localized collection of pus that can form due to infection. This can occur if bacteria invade the gum tissue or if there is an underlying issue with the tooth itself, such as decay or a previous dental procedure.

3. Irritation from Dental Cleaning: Sometimes, dental cleanings can irritate the gums, especially if there is existing inflammation. This irritation can lead to temporary swelling and discomfort.

4. Canker Sores or Oral Lesions: The white spot could also be a canker sore or another type of oral lesion, which can cause localized pain and swelling.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using dental floss daily. This will help reduce plaque buildup and prevent further gum irritation.

2. Salt Water Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse several times a day.

3. Avoid Irritants: Try to avoid spicy, acidic, or hard foods that may irritate the swollen area. Additionally, be cautious when brushing near the affected area to avoid further irritation.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the swelling and the white spot. If the swelling persists, increases, or if you experience significant pain, it’s important to return to your dentist for further evaluation.

6. Follow-Up with Your Dentist: Since you have a history of periodontal disease, regular follow-ups with your dentist are crucial. They can monitor your gum health and address any issues before they become more serious.

7. Consider Professional Cleaning: If you haven’t already, ask your dentist about more frequent cleanings or deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to help manage your periodontal health.

Conclusion
While the swelling below your lower canine tooth may be a temporary issue following your dental cleaning, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Maintaining good oral hygiene and following the recommendations above can help alleviate discomfort. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional dental care is crucial to prevent any potential complications related to periodontal disease or infection. Your oral health is vital, and addressing these issues promptly will help ensure a healthy smile.

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