Why has my gum swollen
A swollen gum can result from plaque-related inflammation, food trapped between teeth, trauma, a local abscess, or irritation around an erupting tooth.
The short answer
Gum swelling is an increase in tissue fluid and inflammatory cells in the gingiva. The location, colour, tenderness, bleeding, bad taste, tooth sensitivity, and duration help distinguish superficial gingivitis from infection around a tooth or deeper dental disease.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Gently brush the area and clean between the teeth without forcing an object into the gum. Rinse with warm water, avoid squeezing a lump, and arrange an examination so the tooth, gum pocket, fillings, and nearby tissues can be checked.
What can you do next?
Seek prompt dental care for swelling that lasts, recurs, is painful, or drains a bad taste. Get urgent help for facial swelling, fever, difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask whether the swelling is in the gum or coming from the tooth root, and whether an X-ray or periodontal measurement is needed. Ask what treatment addresses the cause and how to prevent recurrence.
What should you ask the dentist?
A gum lump can be caused by inflammation, trauma, or a dental infection.
Frequently asked questions
Food impaction, decay, a cracked tooth, a periodontal pocket, or an abscess can affect one area. Examination is needed to identify which structure is involved.
Should I pop a swollen gum?
No. Squeezing can injure tissue and does not remove the dental source of infection or inflammation.
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