What causes a gum polyp to grow between teeth, and what should be done about it?

Dec 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, the growth of a polyp-like lesion between the teeth may be related to causes such as gingival papillary hyperplasia, physiological gingival enlargement, gingivitis, periodontitis, or periodontal abscess. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow the doctor's guidance for treatments such as general care or medication. It is also advised to maintain good oral hygiene habits and brush teeth regularly to preserve oral health.

Generally, the growth of a gum polyp between teeth may be related to causes such as gingival papilla hyperplasia, physiological gingival enlargement, gingivitis, periodontitis, and periodontal abscess. It is recommended to seek timely medical advice and undergo general treatment or medication under a doctor's guidance. Specific explanations are as follows:

1. Gingival Papilla Hyperplasia

Gingival papilla hyperplasia is a natural growth phenomenon of the gingival tissue, usually due to increased spaces between teeth, causing the gingival tissue to proliferate to fill these gaps. It is recommended to maintain oral health by regularly cleaning the mouth using tools such as dental floss and interdental brushes.

2. Physiological Gingival Enlargement

Physiological gingival enlargement refers to non-specific hyperplasia of the gingival tissue caused by long-term, chronic mechanical irritation, such as improper brushing techniques or crowded teeth. It is recommended to use proper brushing methods and avoid toothbrushes that are too hard or too soft.

3. Gingivitis

Gingivitis is primarily caused by bacterial infection. Inflammatory stimulation leads to gingival hyperplasia, forming polyps between teeth. It is usually accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, bleeding, and pain of the gums. Treatment may include medications such as metronidazole tablets, amoxicillin capsules, and compound chlorhexidine mouthwash, used under a doctor's guidance.

4. Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an inflammation of the periodontal tissues caused by bacteria in dental plaque. The inflammation leads to gingival hyperplasia, forming polyps between teeth. Symptoms generally include periodontal pocket formation, alveolar bone resorption, and tooth mobility. Treatment may involve medications such as tinidazole capsules, minocycline hydrochloride tablets, and chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash, used as advised by a doctor.

5. Periodontal Abscess

A periodontal abscess is a localized purulent inflammation formed when pus within a periodontal pocket cannot drain due to worsening periodontitis. Symptoms generally include deepening of the periodontal pocket, tooth mobility, and severe gingival pain. Treatment may involve medications such as cefradine capsules, ornidazole dispersible tablets, and roxithromycin dispersible tablets, taken as prescribed by a doctor.

It is recommended to maintain good hygiene habits, brush teeth regularly, and clean interdental spaces using tools such as dental floss and interdental brushes to prevent the accumulation of food debris and dental plaque, thus maintaining oral health.