My tooth feels swollen
A tooth cannot swell by itself, but the tooth, gum, or tissues around its root can feel enlarged or pressured.
The short answer
A tooth cannot swell by itself, but the tooth, gum, or tissues around its root can feel enlarged or pressured. Common causes include a dental abscess, gum inflammation, trapped food, trauma, or an erupting tooth.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The sensation may come from swelling in the gum beside the tooth, inflammation in the periodontal ligament around the root, or pressure within an infected pulp. Looking in a mirror cannot reliably show how deep the problem is.
What can you do next?
Brush gently, clean around the area without forcing objects into the gum, and rinse with warm water if it is comfortable. Avoid squeezing a lump or applying heat, and choose pain relief only according to the label and your medical circumstances.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange prompt assessment for visible swelling, increasing pain, pus, fever, a bad taste, or pain when biting. Go to emergency care for swelling that affects breathing or swallowing or spreads into the face, eye, or neck.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling is in the gum, periodontal ligament, or root area. Ask whether a pulp test and dental X-ray are needed and whether drainage, a filling, root canal treatment, gum treatment, or removal is appropriate.