Why are my gums inflamed in one spot

Inflammation in one gum spot is usually caused by trapped plaque, food, a local irritant, or infection around a tooth.

One swollen gum area usually has a local cause, such as plaque or food trapped beside a tooth, but a dental examination is needed if it persists or becomes painful.

One swollen gum area usually has a local cause, such as plaque or food trapped beside a tooth, but a dental examination is needed if it persists or becomes painful.

A single site can be irritated by a rough filling edge, a floss injury, an erupting wisdom tooth, decay, or a periodontal pocket. A draining tooth infection can also produce a tender swelling near the root.

Rinse gently with warm water, brush the area without scrubbing, and clean between the nearby teeth carefully. Do not pierce the swelling or place aspirin directly on the gum.

Arrange care if the area lasts more than a few days, repeatedly returns, bleeds easily, or produces pus. Urgent care is appropriate for spreading swelling, fever, severe pain, or trouble opening the mouth.