What causes hole in the gum with white material inside?
Patient: The gum behind my last tooth on the left side, the gum is swollen & there's a hole there & inside of the hole is something white. Its painful & I keep brushing it to make sure nothings in it. I also use mouthwash to clean it but nothing is making it go away. What is the hole & the white in it?? Doctor: Hi..Can understand your concern..As per your complain the swollen gum and the white material inside it is a result of some inflammation..There can be a few reasons depending upon whether it is the second molar or the wisdom tooth..In case it is a wisdom tooth which is erupting or is impacted then the gum above it can get infected and inflamed due to either food deposition between the gum and the wisdom tooth or it can be due to gum flap bitten by the opposite jaw tooth and the condition is known as PERICORONITIS.The white material in it is Pus.In case it is second molar the swollen gum with white material in it can be as a result of infection in the gums due to deposits on the teeth like plaque or calculus or due to foreign body impaction in the gums which carries infection along with it deeper into the gums causing pus formation.It can also be due to deeply infected tooth causing pus formation below the tips of the roots of the tooth causing swelling on the gums with pus inside..I would suggest you to consult a dentist and get evaluated for the exact cause of the swelling and get treated accordingly..In case if it is wisdom tooth either excision of gum flap or extraction if the tooth is impacted followed by antibiotics and painkillers can be done..In case of gum infection professional cleaning of teeth followed by antibiotics and gum paints can help..In case of tooth infection root canal treatment or extraction depending on the condition of the tooth can be done.Hope your query is solved..If you find the answer helpful please write a positive review and click on find this answer helpful as a token of appreciation..Thanks and regards..Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora.