Expert: Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD - 11/4/2008

Question
Hi

My wisdom tooth has half come through on one side, and caused me no pain but at the side of it there is a small scar tissue like lump which doesn't hurt unless i press down hard on it. Sometimes its swollen when I wake up in the mornings. I just wondered whether it is scar tissue where my wisdom tooth has come through the gum or whether it sounds like something else??

Thanks  

Answer
Hi Michelle,

It sound like the wisdom tooth is impacted. When it grows in, a part of the gum tissue is still covering it. This flap is most likely what you are seeing. This flap of tissue can get infected, and if pressed on, will trigger pain.

You can have just this flap removed, however, you probably need the entire wisdom tooth removed. Once the tooth has been extracted, the gums will heal normally, and this flap will not bother you anymore.

I would see an oral surgeon to schedule this treatment.

Please let me know if you need more help.