Gum behind my molar is swollen
Swelling behind a molar can come from trapped food, gum inflammation, an erupting wisdom tooth, decay, or infection around the tooth.
The short answer
Swelling behind a molar may be caused by trapped food, inflamed gum tissue, a partially erupted wisdom tooth, decay, or an infection.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The tissue behind the last visible molar may be the gum over a third molar, the back gum pocket of the second molar, or the cheek lining. Plaque and food can collect there, while pain from the tooth root can also spread to the same area.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently with warm water, brush reachable surfaces with a soft brush, and clean between the back teeth without poking the swelling. Do not squeeze it or place aspirin on the gum; use pain medicine only when the label and your health history allow it.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange dental care if swelling persists, returns, hurts during chewing, or produces a bad taste or pus. Get urgent help for fever, facial or neck swelling, trouble opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling is over a wisdom tooth, in a gum pocket, or linked to decay, and whether an examination and radiograph can show the source.
Frequently asked questions
Can this be diagnosed from symptoms alone?
No. Similar symptoms can come from different teeth or oral tissues, so an examination and sometimes imaging are needed.
What should I avoid meanwhile?
Do not squeeze it or place aspirin on the gum; use pain medicine only when the label and your health history allow it.