My teeth is swollen
Tooth-area swelling can signal gum inflammation, decay, or a dental abscess and needs attention when it persists or spreads.
The short answer
Tooth-area swelling can signal gum inflammation, decay, or a dental abscess and needs attention when it persists or spreads. A dentist may examine the tooth, test its nerve, and take an X-ray to locate the source.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
People often describe swelling when the gum, cheek, or area beside a tooth looks enlarged. A cavity reaching the pulp can allow bacteria into the root canals, while gum disease can create an inflamed pocket around the tooth.
What can you do next?
Keep the area clean with gentle brushing and interdental cleaning, and choose soft foods if chewing hurts. Do not apply aspirin or harsh chemicals to the gum, and do not rely on antibiotics without treatment of the dental source.
When should you seek dental care?
Book prompt dental care for swelling with tooth pain, pus, fever, or a foul taste. Go to urgent medical care for facial or neck swelling, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or inability to open the mouth normally.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the tooth needs a filling, root canal treatment, drainage, or removal, and whether the neighboring teeth are involved. Ask how to monitor the swelling until definitive treatment is completed.
Frequently asked questions
Does tooth swelling always hurt?
No. A draining abscess or chronic infection may produce swelling with limited pain.
Will antibiotics cure the swollen tooth?
Antibiotics may be considered in selected spreading infections, but the dental source usually still needs drainage or tooth treatment.