Gums on roof of my mouth are swollen

Swelling on the roof of the mouth can reflect an irritated mucosal area, a blocked salivary gland, a dental infection, trauma, or a normal bony prominence.

The roof of the mouth includes the hard palate, soft palate, minor salivary glands, blood vessels, nerves, and tissue beside the upper teeth. A lump or swollen patch may follow a burn, sharp food, ulcer, gland blockage, gum infection, or an anatomical torus.

Avoid hot, sharp, acidic, and spicy foods while the area is tender, keep brushing gently, and rinse with plain water. Do not puncture a lump or press on it, because that can injure tissue or spread infection.

Arrange an examination if swelling is painful, enlarging, draining, associated with toothache or fever, or not settling. Get urgent care for facial swelling, rapidly worsening symptoms, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Ask whether the swelling is in gum, palate, salivary tissue, or bone, whether an upper tooth is infected, and whether an X-ray or referral is needed.