What should I do if a tooth is growing above the gum?
Aug 02, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Introduction
Generally, teeth erupt through the alveolar bone and penetrate the gingiva. Thus, it is understandable that teeth appear to grow “on” the gums. In fact, this is a normal physiological process requiring no treatment—teeth emerge from the jawbone, pierce through the gingiva, and continue to erupt. If no inflammation is present, no intervention is necessary; regular toothbrushing and good oral hygiene are sufficient. However, if the gingiva becomes ulcerated or inflamed—indicating periodontal inflammation—appropriate treatment may be required.
If gingivitis occurs, the patient’s gums become swollen and painful, interfering with normal eating. In severe cases, even swallowing saliva can be painful. Additionally, symptoms such as gingival bleeding and halitosis may accompany the condition—causing significant discomfort. So, what should be done if a tooth emerges through the gums?
What to Do If a Tooth Emerges Through the Gums
Generally speaking, teeth develop within the alveolar bone and must penetrate the overlying gingiva during eruption. Thus, it is understandable that teeth appear to “grow through” the gums. In fact, this is a normal physiological process—teeth erupt by breaking through the gingiva from the mandible or maxilla. No treatment is required unless inflammation is present. Routine oral hygiene—including regular brushing and proper dental care—is sufficient. However, if gingival rupture occurs alongside periodontal inflammation, swelling, or pain, rinsing with normal saline or hydrogen peroxide solution may help alleviate symptoms. Ideally, patients should visit the dental department of a hospital for professional local irrigation, although home rinsing with normal saline or hydrogen peroxide remains an acceptable alternative.
If a tooth is visibly emerging through the gums, it is advisable to consult a qualified dentist at a reputable hospital’s Department of Stomatology—or, preferably, the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at a large medical center. A curved radiograph (e.g., occlusal or panoramic X-ray) should be obtained to determine the nature of the tooth emerging through the gingiva. It is commonly a supernumerary tooth—most frequently located in the midline of the maxilla and termed a “mesiodens.” Such teeth are classified as supernumerary because they develop beyond the normal dental formula. If confirmed as a supernumerary tooth, prompt extraction under local or general anesthesia is recommended. Alternatively, the tooth may be a normally developing but impacted tooth—most commonly the maxillary canine or the maxillary second premolar. Due to delayed eruption, these teeth may experience impaction or inhibition. If detected early, orthodontic traction can be performed to guide the tooth into its correct position. In older patients, extraction may be the preferred option.
Patients are advised to maintain excellent oral hygiene and healthy lifestyle habits in daily life, and to avoid spicy or irritating foods. We hope this information proves helpful.
