Roof of mouth swelling

Swelling on the roof of the mouth may come from irritation, a blocked gland, or an infection near an upper tooth and needs an exam if persistent.

The hard palate is covered by tightly attached mucosa, while the soft palate contains muscle and glands, so swelling varies by location. A hot-food burn, trauma, an anatomic bony prominence, or a blocked minor salivary gland can create a lump.

Avoid hot, sharp, acidic, or spicy foods and do not press, puncture, or drain the swelling. A dentist may test upper teeth, inspect the palate, take a dental radiograph, and treat the tooth or lesion according to the finding.

Arrange prompt dental care for toothache, pus, fever, facial swelling, or a lump that persists or enlarges. Emergency care is needed for trouble breathing, swallowing, opening the mouth, or rapidly spreading facial swelling.

Ask whether the swelling is linked to an upper tooth, a salivary gland, trauma, or normal bone anatomy. Ask whether imaging, drainage, root canal treatment, extraction, or referral is appropriate.