Swollen gum behind back molar
A swollen gum behind a back molar may surround a partially erupted wisdom tooth, trap food, or reflect gum or tooth infection.
The short answer
The tissue behind a last molar is often the gum flap over a partially erupted wisdom tooth. Inflammation there is called pericoronitis, but swelling can also come from decay, a periodontal pocket, trauma, or an abscess in the molar.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Gently clean around the area with a small soft brush, rinse with warm salt water, and avoid chewing hard food on that side. A dentist may irrigate beneath the gum flap, remove trapped debris, treat the tooth, or assess whether wisdom-tooth removal is appropriate.
What can you do next?
Arrange dental care if swelling lasts, returns, causes bad taste, pain, reduced mouth opening, or difficulty chewing. Fever, facial swelling, swallowing difficulty, or breathing difficulty needs urgent attention.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask whether the swelling is over a wisdom tooth, whether the molar or gum pocket is infected, and which treatment will prevent repeated episodes.
What should you ask the dentist?
Likely site
Frequently asked questions
No. Squeezing it can injure tissue and spread irritation; examination is needed to identify its source.
Will it always need wisdom-tooth removal?