My gums are swollen around my teeth
Swollen gums around teeth commonly reflect inflammation from plaque, trapped food, irritation, or an infection that needs examination.
The short answer
Swollen gums are enlarged, tender, or puffy gingival tissues around one or more teeth. Plaque can inflame the gum margin, while a trapped food particle, erupting tooth, ill-fitting restoration, or dental abscess can affect one area.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Gently brush the gumline with a soft brush and clean between the teeth without forcing floss into the tissue. Avoid tobacco and do not press or drain a swelling; note its location, pain, bleeding, taste, and duration.
What can you do next?
Seek care promptly for pus, fever, facial swelling, severe pain, a loose tooth, or difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing. Persistent swelling also needs an examination even when it is not painful.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask whether the swelling is gingivitis, periodontal disease, a localized abscess, or irritation from a tooth or restoration. Ask whether an X-ray, periodontal measurements, cleaning, drainage, or treatment of the tooth is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can this be treated at home?
Home care can reduce irritation and plaque, but persistent, severe, or unexplained symptoms need clinical assessment.
What will the dentist check?
The dentist examines the tissues, teeth, bite, and relevant history, then chooses tests or treatment for the identified cause.