Middle gum swollen
A localized gum swelling can result from trapped food, gingivitis, a periodontal pocket, trauma, or infection from a tooth.
The short answer
Swelling between teeth often follows local plaque or food impaction. A pimple-like bump beside a tooth may be a drainage tract from a root or gum abscess.
What should you notice about a swollen gum area?
Clean gently with a soft brush and interdental cleaner, but do not puncture or squeeze the swelling. Note its size, tenderness, discharge, and any bad taste.
What can you do about swelling between your teeth?
Seek prompt care if it persists, returns, drains pus, or accompanies tooth pain. Fever, spreading facial swelling, or difficulty opening, swallowing, or breathing requires urgent help.
When should a dentist assess gum swelling?
Does the swelling begin in the gum or inside the tooth? Are probing, pulp testing, an X-ray, drainage, or root canal treatment needed?
Frequently asked questions
What is the main thing to remember?
Swelling between teeth often follows local plaque or food impaction. A pimple-like bump beside a tooth may be a drainage tract from a root or gum abscess.
When should I arrange an examination?
Does the swelling begin in the gum or inside the tooth? Are probing, pulp testing, an X-ray, drainage, or root canal treatment needed?
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.