Swollen gum on top of mouth

The top of the mouth is the palate, made of a hard front portion and a softer rear portion. A lump or puffy patch there may reflect a burn from hot food, a sharp-food injury, friction from a denture, inflammation around an upper tooth, or a fluid-filled or infected lesion.

An abscess from an upper premolar or molar can press toward the palate and cause localized swelling, tenderness, tooth pain, a bad taste, or sensitivity to heat and chewing. The appearance alone cannot identify the cause because several conditions can look alike in the mouth.

Rinse gently with lukewarm salt water, choose soft foods, and avoid poking, squeezing, or burning the area with very hot food. Continue gentle toothbrushing, but do not place aspirin, alcohol, concentrated peroxide, or other household chemicals on the swelling.

Record when it appeared, whether it is getting larger, and whether a nearby upper tooth hurts or feels loose. A dentist may examine the palate and teeth, test tooth sensitivity, measure the gum, and take a dental radiograph if an upper tooth infection is suspected.

Arrange a dental examination if the swelling lasts, returns, enlarges, bleeds, becomes painful, or is associated with a sore tooth, pus, or a persistent ulcer. A dentist can treat the cause, which may involve removing an irritant, treating a cavity or root infection, draining an abscess, or managing a soft-tissue lesion.

Seek urgent care for fever, rapidly spreading facial or mouth swelling, difficulty swallowing or breathing, marked difficulty opening the mouth, or swelling around the eye. These signs can indicate an infection that needs prompt assessment.

Ask whether the swelling is connected to an upper tooth, a salivary gland, an injury, or another palate lesion, and whether you need a radiograph or a specialist assessment. Ask what treatment will address the cause and which changes should prompt faster review.