My upper left second molar and the tooth in front of it have a sore spot between the gums. Neither tooth hurts, but the gum tissue between them is sensitive. After I eat, that sore spot on my gums throbs. After 30 to 45 minutes, the throbbing stops, but the gums are sore. I’ve had this issue since last August, so my dentist took an x-ray. She didn’t see anything but said maybe something was wrong with the root canal tooth, which was not the second molar but the tooth in front of it. My dentist says she can remove the tooth if the pain doesn’t improve in a month. She hasn’t done anything to the tooth for it to improve. I have repeatedly explained that my teeth don’t hurt, but the gums between them do. I have no other gum pain between any other teeth. Why would I need an extraction? – Thanks. Jackie
Jackie,
We recommend asking your dentist for a second opinion from a periodontist. (gum specialist) There is no reason to extract a tooth because you have a sore spot on your gums. Your dentist took an X-ray, and your tooth looks fine. However, an X-ray will not reveal an issue with your gums.
Why Are Your Gums Sensitive Between Two Teeth?
Floss thoroughly to remove food debris that may be causing sore gums
You may have an abscess youyour gums are sensitive between two teeth.. A periodontist will check the pockets between your teeth. Or perhaps food particles are stuck between your teeth. A deep cleaning may help your pain.
Also, a lack of thorough flossing can affect your gums. Flossing between your teeth thoroughly can remove any food debris and relieve your sore gums.
Save your root canal tooth by scheduling an exam with a periodontist to identify the source of your discomfort.
Atlanta periodontist Dr. David Pumphrey sponsors this post.
