Swelling inside mouth near teeth

A localized swelling beside a tooth often reflects inflamed gum tissue or an abscess from the pulp or tissues around the root. Swelling on the cheek side, palate, tongue side, or under the tongue gives useful anatomical clues. The dentist checks the tooth, gum pocket, bite, nearby mucosa, and lymph nodes, and may use dental imaging.

An abscess is a collection of inflammatory fluid or pus associated with infection. Other causes include food trapped under the gum, a blocked minor salivary gland, a bite injury, a sharp tooth edge, or a cyst-like lesion. Pain on biting, temperature sensitivity, pus, fever, or a bad taste makes a tooth-related infection more concerning.

Do not squeeze or pierce the swelling. Keep brushing gently, rinse with lukewarm salt water, avoid chewing on that side, and arrange dental care rather than relying on leftover antibiotics. Treatment may include removing decay, root canal treatment, drainage, gum treatment, or extraction, chosen after the source is identified.

Get prompt dental care for increasing size, severe pain, fever, pus, facial swelling, or difficulty opening the mouth. Go to emergency care for trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling beneath the tongue, or rapidly spreading swelling. A lump that remains, ulcerates, bleeds, or changes over about two weeks needs an oral examination.