Gum inflammation back of mouth
Inflammation at the back of the mouth may come from plaque around a molar, a partially erupted wisdom tooth, trauma, or infection that needs examination.
What is the direct answer?
Inflammation at the back of the mouth may come from plaque around a molar, a partially erupted wisdom tooth, trauma, or infection that needs examination.
What does this question mean?
The back of the mouth includes the gum behind the last molar and the tissues around erupting wisdom teeth. A flap over a partly erupted tooth can trap food and bacteria, while plaque-related gingivitis, a decayed molar, cheek biting, or an abscess can produce similar redness and swelling.
What can you do next?
Gently clean the area with a soft brush, rinse with lukewarm salt water if it is comfortable, and avoid tobacco and hard foods that traumatise the tissue. Do not probe under a gum flap or place undiluted chemicals on it; arrange an examination to identify the source.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt dental care for swelling that lasts, worsening pain, pus, fever, bad taste, difficulty opening the mouth, or pain when swallowing. Emergency care is needed when swelling affects breathing or spreads into the face or neck.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the inflammation is around a wisdom tooth, caused by plaque or decay, or linked to an abscess. Ask whether cleaning, an X-ray, gum treatment, restoration, extraction, or another procedure is indicated.
Frequently asked questions
Can gum inflammation behind the last tooth heal by itself?
Mild irritation may settle when the trigger is removed, but persistent or recurrent swelling can reflect a wisdom tooth, decay, or infection that needs treatment.
Should I press or drain the swelling?
No. Squeezing or probing can injure tissue and spread irritation; examination is needed to determine whether drainage or another treatment is required.