Swollen gum below molar

A swollen gum beside or below a molar can result from trapped debris, gum inflammation, a tooth infection, or an erupting wisdom tooth.

Tissue around a molar may enlarge when plaque or food is trapped, a pocket is infected, or decay reaches the pulp and infection spreads toward the root. A partially erupted wisdom tooth can inflame the gum flap over its crown.

Rinse gently with warm water, keep the area clean with a soft brush, and avoid squeezing the swelling or placing aspirin on the gum. Use ordinary pain relief only if it suits your health and the label directions.

Seek prompt care for worsening swelling, throbbing pain, pus, fever, difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing. Facial swelling or breathing difficulty is an emergency.

Ask whether the source is the gum, pulp, root, or wisdom tooth, whether an X-ray is needed, and whether drainage, cleaning, restoration, root canal treatment, or extraction is indicated.