I have a cavity and my gum is swollen

A cavity with swollen gum can indicate irritation or infection near the tooth and should be assessed promptly.

Tooth decay removes mineral from enamel and dentin, creating a lesion that can approach the pulp. Swelling beside the tooth may come from trapped food, inflamed gum, or a dental abscess involving the pulp or tissues around the root.

Rinse gently with warm water, keep the area clean, and use a cold compress outside the cheek for short intervals. Do not place aspirin or concentrated chemicals on the gum, and do not squeeze a swelling; treatment may involve a filling, root canal treatment, drainage, or removal depending on the findings.

Arrange dental care promptly for swelling with toothache, pain on biting, bad taste, or sensitivity that lingers. Facial swelling, fever, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling near the eye requires urgent emergency assessment.

Ask whether the decay has reached the pulp, whether an abscess is present, what imaging is needed, and whether the tooth can be restored or needs root canal treatment or extraction.