What do i do if my gum is swollen
Clean a swollen gum gently and avoid irritation, but arrange assessment because it may reflect plaque, trapped food, eruption or infection.
What should you do when your gum is swollen?
Clean a swollen gum gently and avoid irritation, but arrange assessment because it may reflect plaque, trapped food, eruption or infection.
How can examination distinguish irritation from an abscess?
Inflammation enlarges gingival tissue; examination checks the gum margin, pocket, tooth, bite and nearby tissues to separate irritation from an abscess.
How can you clean a swollen gum safely?
Use a soft brush and clean between teeth without forcing objects into the gum. Do not squeeze the swelling; treatment may involve cleaning, drainage or a filling.
When does gum swelling require prompt or emergency care?
Seek prompt care for pus, bad taste, throbbing pain, fever or facial swelling; breathing or swallowing difficulty is an emergency.
What should you ask about the cause of gum swelling?
Ask what caused the swelling, whether there is a pocket or abscess, and whether cleaning, drainage, a filling or another procedure is required.
Frequently asked questions
What is the next practical step?
Use a soft brush and clean between teeth without forcing objects into the gum. Do not squeeze the swelling; treatment may involve cleaning, drainage or a filling.
When is urgent care needed?
Seek prompt care for pus, bad taste, throbbing pain, fever or facial swelling; breathing or swallowing difficulty is an emergency.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.