Gum at back of teeth swollen
Swelling behind the back teeth can involve an erupting wisdom tooth, trapped debris, gum disease, or a dental infection.
The short answer
Swelling behind the back teeth can come from an erupting wisdom tooth, trapped food, gum inflammation, or infection around a tooth.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The tissue behind a last molar may be a gum flap over a partially erupted wisdom tooth, the distal gum around a molar, or the lining of the cheek. Plaque and food under a flap can inflame the tissue, while decay or a root infection can cause deeper swelling.
What can you do next?
Keep the area gently clean with a soft brush and rinse with warm water after meals. Do not cut the gum flap, press the swelling, or place tablets directly on the tissue; arrange an examination to identify the source.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt care for worsening pain, pus, bad taste, fever, limited mouth opening, or swelling that spreads toward the cheek or neck. Difficulty swallowing or breathing requires urgent medical attention.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the tooth is erupting, impacted, decayed, or infected and whether an X-ray is needed. Ask whether cleaning, gum treatment, restoration, root canal treatment, or removal addresses the cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can a wisdom tooth cause swelling without pain?
Yes, early gum inflammation can be noticed as swelling before significant pain develops, but the tooth still needs assessment if it persists.
Should I pop a swollen gum?
No; squeezing can injure tissue and does not remove a dental source of infection.