Your tooth might appear to be going into your gums primarily due to a condition called impaction, or potentially other issues affecting the surrounding gum tissue.
Possible Reasons for a Tooth Appearing to Go Into the Gums:
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Impaction: This is the most common reason. Impaction occurs when a tooth doesn't have enough room to erupt properly. This lack of space can cause the tooth to become trapped beneath the gum line or even bone. Wisdom teeth are commonly impacted, but other teeth can also be affected.
- Overcrowding: A small jaw may not have enough room for all teeth to emerge correctly.
- Misalignment: Teeth can become twisted, tilted, or displaced as they try to erupt, leading to impaction.
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Gum Recession: While it might seem like the tooth is moving into the gums, it could be that the gums are receding away from the tooth. This exposes more of the tooth's root, making the crown appear relatively shorter. This can be caused by:
- Aggressive Brushing: Brushing too hard can damage gum tissue.
- Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease): Infections can destroy gum tissue and bone, leading to recession.
- Genetics: Some people are more prone to gum recession.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque and tartar buildup can contribute to gum disease.
- Clenching or Grinding Teeth (Bruxism): This can put excessive force on teeth and gums.
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Eruption: For younger individuals, the tooth may still be in the process of erupting. It might appear to be "going into" the gums before fully emerging.
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Inflammation: Swelling of the gum tissue can make the tooth look smaller or partially submerged. This can be caused by infection or injury.
What to Do:
It is crucial to see a dentist or periodontist as soon as possible to determine the exact cause of your tooth appearing to go into the gums. A professional examination, including X-rays, can help diagnose the problem accurately.
Possible treatments may include:
- Extraction: If the tooth is impacted and causing problems (pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth), extraction may be necessary.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Braces or other orthodontic appliances can help create space and guide the tooth into the correct position.
- Gum Grafting: If gum recession is the cause, a gum graft can restore lost tissue.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar and smooth the tooth roots in cases of gum disease.
It's essential to address this issue promptly to prevent further complications like infection, damage to surrounding teeth, and bone loss.
