What is the direct answer?
Put a cold compress on the cheek and rinse gently with warm salt water; swollen gums need a cause-based dental assessment.
What does this question mean?
Swollen gums can result from plaque inflammation, food trapped under the gum, trauma, a partially erupted tooth, or an abscess.
What can you do next?
Use a soft brush and clean carefully around the area; do not press aspirin, peroxide, alcohol, or sharp objects onto the gum.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek prompt care for pus, worsening pain, a bad taste, fever, facial swelling, or difficulty opening the mouth.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the swelling is from gingivitis, an abscess, a trapped irritant, or an erupting tooth, and whether imaging is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I manage this entirely at home?
Use a soft brush and clean carefully around the area; do not press aspirin, peroxide, alcohol, or sharp objects onto the gum.
What should make me seek help sooner?
Seek prompt care for pus, worsening pain, a bad taste, fever, facial swelling, or difficulty opening the mouth.

