Swelling around crown tooth

Swelling beside a crowned tooth can come from gum inflammation, food trapping, decay at the crown margin, or infection in the tooth or root.

A crown covers the visible tooth, but bacteria can still irritate the gingiva at its edge or reach decay beneath it. Tenderness on biting, a gum boil, or deep throbbing pain can indicate inflammation around the root rather than a simple crown-edge problem.

Clean carefully around the crown with a toothbrush and interdental brush or floss, and avoid chewing hard foods on that side. A dentist may probe the gum, test the tooth, inspect the crown margin, and take an intraoral radiograph before choosing treatment.

Arrange prompt care for persistent swelling, pain, a bad taste, or drainage. Seek urgent help if facial swelling spreads or causes difficulty swallowing, breathing, or opening the mouth.

Ask whether the crown margin fits, whether decay or cement is trapping plaque, whether the pulp or root is infected, and whether the crown can be retained during treatment.