A part of my gum is swollen
Localised gum swelling can come from irritation, plaque, a trapped food particle, gum disease or an infection near a tooth.
The short answer
Localised gum swelling can come from irritation, plaque, a trapped food particle, gum disease or an infection near a tooth. The appearance alone cannot identify the cause, so the dentist checks the gum, tooth, bite and nearby tissues.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Healthy gingiva is firm and closely adapted around the teeth. A red, tender or puffy area may reflect inflammation in the gum margin, a periodontal pocket, trauma from brushing, or a dental abscess draining toward the gum.
What can you do next?
Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and clean between the teeth without forcing an object into the swelling. Rinse with warm water, avoid squeezing it, and note whether pain, discharge, bleeding or a nearby tooth problem is present.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange dental care if the swelling persists, returns, bleeds easily, produces pus, or is linked with toothache or bad taste. Urgent assessment is needed for rapidly spreading facial swelling, fever, trouble swallowing or difficulty breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling is in the gum margin, around a tooth root or in another oral tissue. Ask if probing, dental radiographs, cleaning, drainage, a filling or root canal treatment is needed based on the finding.
Frequently asked questions
Can a swollen gum heal on its own?
Mild irritation may settle after the trigger is removed, but persistent or recurring swelling needs an examination to find the cause.
Does a gum lump always mean an abscess?
No. It can be irritation or inflammation, although an abscess is one possibility when swelling accompanies tooth pain or discharge.