Swelling behind molar
Swelling behind a molar can come from inflamed gum tissue, a partly erupted wisdom tooth, or an infection near the tooth.
What can cause swelling behind a molar?
Swelling behind a molar can come from inflamed gum tissue, a partly erupted wisdom tooth, or an infection near the tooth.
How can a wisdom tooth cause swelling behind a molar?
The gum behind the last molar may cover a wisdom tooth and trap plaque or food. Decay, pericoronitis, gum disease, and a dental abscess are other possibilities.
What can you do now for swelling behind a molar?
Rinse gently with warm salt water, brush softly, avoid puncturing the area, and use a cold pack outside the cheek. Arrange an examination to identify the cause.
When is swelling behind a molar an urgent problem?
Seek urgent care for spreading swelling, fever, pus, severe pain, trouble opening the mouth, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.
What should you ask about the cause of molar swelling?
Ask whether the swelling is around a wisdom tooth, gum pocket, or tooth root, and whether an X-ray or drainage is needed.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main causes of swelling behind a molar?
Swelling behind a molar can come from inflamed gum tissue, a partly erupted wisdom tooth, or an infection near the tooth.
What should I do now?
Rinse gently with warm salt water, brush softly, avoid puncturing the area, and use a cold pack outside the cheek. Arrange an examination to identify the cause.
Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.