My gum has swollen
A swollen gum is usually a sign of local inflammation caused by plaque, food trapped near the gum, trauma, an erupting tooth, or infection around a tooth.
What is the direct answer?
A swollen gum is usually a sign of local inflammation caused by plaque, food trapped near the gum, trauma, an erupting tooth, or infection around a tooth.
What does this question mean?
The gum, or gingiva, can enlarge when its blood vessels and immune cells respond to irritation. A swelling may be beside one tooth, around a partially erupted wisdom tooth, or spread across several gum margins.
What can you do next?
Gently brush the area, clean between the teeth if this is comfortable, rinse with warm water, and avoid squeezing the swelling. Note its location, duration, pain, bleeding, bad taste, and any fever.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek urgent dental care for facial swelling, fever, pus, severe pain, difficulty opening the mouth, or trouble swallowing or breathing. A localized swelling that persists also needs examination.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the source is gum inflammation, a tooth infection, food impaction, or an erupting tooth, and whether an X-ray, cleaning, drainage, or tooth treatment is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can swollen gums heal on their own?
Mild irritation may settle when plaque or trapped food is removed, but persistent or painful swelling can indicate a problem requiring treatment.
Why is there a bad taste?
Fluid from an inflamed gum pocket or draining abscess can produce a bad taste and needs dental assessment.