Mouth pain and swelling

Mouth pain with swelling can involve a tooth, gum, salivary gland, ulcer, injury, or jaw tissue and needs prompt assessment.

Pain and swelling are signs, not a diagnosis. A dental abscess, gum infection, impacted tooth, trauma, salivary duct problem, ulcer, or jaw joint disorder can affect different tissues and needs a different examination and treatment.

Keep the mouth clean, avoid pressing the swelling, choose soft foods, and note its location, onset, triggers, fever, drainage, and any trouble opening the mouth. A clinician examines the teeth, gums, tongue, floor of mouth, salivary areas, and jaw, with tests or imaging when indicated.

Arrange prompt dental care for new or worsening swelling, tooth pain, pus, fever, or difficulty opening the mouth. Go for urgent medical assessment if swelling affects breathing or swallowing or spreads into the face or neck.

Ask which tissue is swollen, whether there is a tooth infection or abscess, whether imaging is needed, and what treatment addresses the source.