Swollen gum under molar
A swollen gum under a molar can reflect trapped food, gum inflammation, an erupting wisdom tooth, or infection from the tooth or surrounding tissues.
The short answer
A swollen gum under a molar can reflect trapped food, gum inflammation, an erupting wisdom tooth, or infection from the tooth or surrounding tissues. The swelling may involve gingiva, a periodontal pocket, or a draining sinus from an infected tooth; examination and often an X-ray identify the source.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The swelling may involve gingiva, a periodontal pocket, or a draining sinus from an infected tooth; examination and often an X-ray identify the source. Rinse gently with warm salt water, brush carefully, remove visible food without sharp objects, and do not squeeze the swelling.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently with warm salt water, brush carefully, remove visible food without sharp objects, and do not squeeze the swelling. Ask whether the cause is a pocket, cavity, root infection, food trap, or wisdom tooth and whether probing or radiographs are needed.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek urgent care for facial swelling, fever, pus, bad taste, worsening pain, limited opening, or swallowing or breathing difficulty.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the cause is a pocket, cavity, root infection, food trap, or wisdom tooth and whether probing or radiographs are needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main cause?
The swelling may involve gingiva, a periodontal pocket, or a draining sinus from an infected tooth; examination and often an X-ray identify the source.
What should I do now?
Rinse gently with warm salt water, brush carefully, remove visible food without sharp objects, and do not squeeze the swelling.