Why are the gums behind my front teeth swollen

Swelling behind the front teeth can come from plaque-related gingivitis, trapped debris, trauma, a sore, or infection near a tooth.

This area contains gingiva over the inner jaw ridge or palate, with normal folds and salivary ducts nearby. Plaque, calculus, injury, an ulcer, or a tooth-root problem can cause swelling.

Brush gently, clean between the front teeth, and rinse with plain warm water. Do not puncture the swelling or apply concentrated chemicals, oils, or powders.

See a dentist if it lasts, enlarges, bleeds, ulcerates, drains, or comes with toothache or fever. Facial swelling or swallowing difficulty is urgent.

Ask whether this is gum inflammation, trauma, a tooth-root problem, or normal anatomy, and whether imaging is needed.