Back bottom gums swollen

The exact cause depends on whether the swelling is over a wisdom tooth, beside a decayed or cracked molar, or spread through the gum, so a dentist may need to examine the area and take a dental X-ray.

The back of the lower jaw contains the second molars and, in some people, a third molar called a wisdom tooth. Gum over a partly erupted wisdom tooth can become inflamed when plaque or food collects beneath the gum flap, a condition called pericoronitis.

Other possibilities include gingivitis from plaque, a gum abscess, or a tooth abscess caused by decay, a crack, or inflammation inside the pulp. Tenderness when biting, a bad taste, pus, sensitivity, or swelling of the cheek makes a tooth-related problem more likely.

Gently brush the lower molars and the gum beside them with a soft toothbrush, and clean between the teeth without forcing an object under the gum. Rinse with warm salt water if it is comfortable, and choose softer foods while the area is tender.

Do not squeeze the swelling, cut the gum, or place aspirin directly on it. Arrange a dental examination if it does not settle promptly, keeps returning, or is accompanied by toothache, a bad taste, pus, or difficulty opening the mouth.

Seek urgent dental care for swelling that is rapidly increasing, fever, pus, worsening pain, or swelling of the cheek or jaw. A dentist may inspect the gum pocket, test the nearby teeth, gently clean trapped debris, and use an X-ray to check the tooth roots and wisdom tooth position.

Go to emergency medical care if swelling makes breathing or swallowing difficult, or if it is spreading into the neck. Treatment depends on the cause and can include professional cleaning, drainage, a filling, root canal treatment, or removal of a problematic wisdom tooth.

Ask whether the swelling is over a wisdom tooth or beside another molar, whether the tooth responds normally to vitality testing, and whether an X-ray shows decay, bone loss, or an impacted tooth.

Ask what treatment will remove the cause, how to keep the area clean while it heals, and which symptoms should prompt same-day review. Tell the dentist about fever, medicines, pregnancy, diabetes, or conditions that affect healing.