Swollen gum and sensitive tooth
A swollen gum beside a sensitive tooth may reflect gum inflammation, exposed dentine, decay, a crack, or infection around the tooth.
The short answer
Gum swelling is enlarged gingival tissue; sensitivity is a response to cold, touch, sweet food, or air. They may be related or separate problems.
Why can gum inflammation expose sensitive tooth surfaces?
Plaque inflames gums, while recession or enamel loss exposes dentine tubules that transmit fluid movement toward the pulp.
How can you care for swelling and tooth sensitivity now?
Clean gently, avoid triggers, and do not press or drain the swelling. Desensitising toothpaste may help exposed dentine but does not treat decay or infection.
When do swollen gums and sensitivity need dental care?
Arrange prompt care for persistent swelling, biting pain, lingering sensitivity, bad taste, pus, fever, or facial swelling.
What should the dentist test behind these symptoms?
Ask whether the source is exposed dentine or pulp inflammation and whether an X-ray or pocket test is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Could this need more than home care?
Arrange prompt care for persistent swelling, biting pain, lingering sensitivity, bad taste, pus, fever, or facial swelling.
What is the key clinical issue?
Plaque inflames gums, while recession or enamel loss exposes dentine tubules that transmit fluid movement toward the pulp.
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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.