Gum is swollen in back of mouth
Swelling at the back of the mouth can come from irritated gum, a wisdom tooth, trapped food, or infection and needs examination if persistent.
The short answer
A swollen gum at the back of the mouth may be caused by trapped food, gum inflammation, an erupting wisdom tooth, or infection around a tooth.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The back gum includes tissue around the last molar and, sometimes, a partially erupted wisdom tooth. A gum flap over a partly erupted tooth can collect plaque and food, while a cavity, cracked tooth, or gum pocket can inflame nearby tissue.
What can you do next?
Gently brush the area with a soft toothbrush and clean between the teeth without forcing an object under the gum. Rinse with warm salt water, avoid tobacco and irritating foods, and use pain medicine only according to its label and your medical advice.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange a dental examination if swelling lasts, returns, bleeds easily, or is accompanied by pain, bad taste, pus, fever, or difficulty opening the mouth. Seek urgent medical help for swelling that spreads into the face or neck, or interferes with swallowing or breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling is around a wisdom tooth, a gum pocket, or a damaged tooth, and whether an X-ray is needed. Ask which cleaning, filling, root canal, extraction, or gum treatment fits the finding and how to prevent recurrence.
Frequently asked questions
Can trapped food make the back gum swell?
Yes. Food and plaque can irritate a gum pocket or the flap around a partly erupted tooth, although persistent swelling still needs an examination.
Should I pop a swollen gum?
No. Puncturing or squeezing it can injure tissue and spread bacteria; a dentist should drain or treat an abscess when one is present.