Back of my gums are swollen

Swelling behind the back teeth can come from gum inflammation, trapped food, or an erupting wisdom tooth and needs assessment if persistent.

The back gum is the gingiva around the molars and, sometimes, the soft tissue over a wisdom tooth. A tender flap can trap food and bacteria, while redness, bleeding, bad taste, or pus can indicate inflammation or infection.

Rinse gently with warm salt water, brush the area with a soft toothbrush, and use careful cleaning around the last tooth without forcing objects under the gum. Do not squeeze the swelling or place aspirin directly on it; arrange an examination to check the tooth and gum pocket.

Book dental care promptly if swelling lasts, recurs, or is accompanied by worsening pain, fever, pus, difficulty opening the mouth, or trouble swallowing. Facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or rapidly spreading swelling requires emergency medical care.

Ask whether a wisdom tooth, gum pocket, cavity, or food impaction is responsible and whether an X-ray is needed. Ask which cleaning method, medication, or procedure will address the cause and how to prevent recurrence.