Gum hurts back of mouth

Pain at the back of the mouth may involve an erupting wisdom tooth, inflamed gum tissue, trapped food, trauma, or infection.

The gum over or beside a partially erupted molar can trap plaque and food, while a nearby tooth or throat structure can also refer pain to that region.

Clean gently with a small toothbrush, rinse with warm salt water if comfortable, and avoid picking under the gum flap or chewing hard foods there.

Seek prompt care for facial swelling, fever, pus, restricted mouth opening, or swallowing difficulty, or if the pain does not settle.

Ask whether a wisdom tooth, gum flap, adjacent molar, decay, or bite trauma is involved and whether imaging is needed.