Swollen gums 1 year old

Swollen gums in a 1-year-old are often related to an erupting tooth, but persistent swelling, pus, fever, or facial swelling needs prompt dental assessment.

What can cause one swollen area?

A tooth erupting through the gum, trapped food, gum irritation, trauma, decay, or an infection around a tooth can produce local swelling. Teething usually affects the gum directly over an erupting tooth and does not cause a pus-filled swelling.

Check whether a tooth is breaking through and keep the area clean with a soft damp cloth or small toothbrush. Offer cool food or a chilled teething ring, and do not apply numbing gels or aspirin to the gum. Arrange assessment if the swelling persists or looks infected.

A clinician may inspect the erupting tooth, gums, bite, and nearby teeth, then treat decay, trauma, or infection if found.

A tooth erupting through the gum, trapped food, gum irritation, trauma, decay, or an infection around a tooth can produce local swelling. Teething usually affects the gum directly over an erupting tooth and does not cause a pus-filled swelling.

Ask what is causing the problem, which examination or imaging is needed, what treatment choices fit the tooth or tissues involved, and what warning signs should prompt earlier review.

Ask which products, medicines, or cleaning methods are suitable for your specific mouth, medical history, age, or pet, and what should be avoided.