A soft growth between two teeth

A soft lump or bump between your teeth needs professional evaluation—it may be a gum cyst, tissue overgrowth, or infection. Schedule a dental visit to get it checked and learn your options.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jose, DDS — October 9, 2026

What you’re noticing

A soft, painless bump or growth between two teeth can be alarming. You might notice it when brushing, flossing, or just by feeling with your tongue. It may feel squishy, be pink or pale, and might not hurt at all—or it could be tender depending on what’s causing it.

Why it happens

Soft tissue growths between teeth have many possible causes. Without examining you, no one can say which one applies to you. Common reasons include:

• Gum cysts or benign growths. Non-cancerous tissue pockets can form in the gum tissue and bone.
• Infection or abscess. A bacterial infection near the tooth root or in the gum tissue can create a tender, swollen bump.
• Gum inflammation. Irritation from plaque, flossing habits, or an existing infection can swell the tissue.
• Trauma or injury. A sharp food piece, aggressive flossing, or bite trauma can trigger tissue overgrowth.
• Food or debris trapping. Chronic impaction between teeth may cause localized inflammation.

When to see your dentist right away

Schedule an appointment promptly (not months from now) if:

• The growth is expanding or changing shape rapidly.
• You have swelling in your face or jaw, difficulty swallowing, or trouble opening your mouth.
• The bump is painful, bleeding, or oozing.
• You have fever or feel unwell.
• The area is interfering with eating or speaking.

Don’t wait weeks or months hoping it goes away on its own. Even benign growths sometimes need removal or monitoring.

What your dentist will do

Your dentist will:

1. Look and feel the area. They’ll examine the bump’s size, texture, color, and whether it’s attached or movable.
2. Check your teeth and gums. They’ll test for bite issues, cavities, gum disease, or bone loss that might explain the growth.
3. Take imaging if needed. X-rays or other scans help reveal what’s happening below the gum line.
4. Ask about your history. When did it start? Is it growing? Any injury or irritation?

Based on these findings, your dentist may recommend observation, treatment (such as professional cleaning or drainage), or a specialist referral.

What you can do now

• Don’t poke, squeeze, or try to drain it. You risk introducing infection or delaying diagnosis.
• Be gentle when brushing and flossing. Avoid the area if it’s painful, but don’t neglect your overall oral hygiene.
• Avoid very hot foods or drinks if the bump is sensitive.
• Keep a note of any changes. How fast is it growing? Is it more tender some days? This info helps your dentist.
• See your dentist soon. Most soft growths are manageable once identified, but the sooner you know what it is, the sooner you can address it.

Related concerns

If you also notice a lump or growth on your tongue, or a pimple-like bump elsewhere on your gum, those should also be checked. Use the same principle: have a dentist or doctor evaluate any new or changing growth in or around your mouth.

How MediMouth helps

MediMouth’s network dentists are trained to evaluate soft tissue growths, perform imaging, and connect you with specialists if needed. If you’re unsure whether your bump needs urgent attention or want a second opinion after a diagnosis, a MediMouth dentist can help you understand your options and make an informed choice. Use our find-a-dentist tool to schedule an appointment in Arizona.

This guide is educational information from MediMouth. It is not a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it isn't a substitute for seeing a licensed dentist.