My gum is swollen and hurts
A swollen painful gum may result from plaque inflammation, trapped food, trauma, an erupting tooth, or infection in a nearby tooth.
The short answer
Painful swelling needs its cause identified because gum irritation and a tooth-root infection require different treatment. Examination may include probing, checking the tooth’s response, and a dental X-ray.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Gum swelling can originate at the gum edge or tooth root. A partially erupted wisdom tooth can trap bacteria beneath its gum flap.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently with warm water, brush the area carefully, and clean between teeth if this does not cause sharp pain. Do not squeeze the swelling or place heat, aspirin, or caustic substances on it.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange prompt care if swelling persists or if there is fever, pus, a bad taste, increasing pain, or difficulty opening the mouth. Facial swelling or trouble breathing or swallowing requires emergency help.
What should you ask the dentist?
Is the swelling in the gum or from the tooth root? Is there a pocket, decay, or wisdom tooth problem? Would drainage, cleaning, a filling, root canal treatment, or removal be needed?
Frequently asked questions
Could this be a sign of a more serious dental problem?
Arrange prompt care if swelling persists or if there is fever, pus, a bad taste, increasing pain, or difficulty opening the mouth.
Could this be an abscess?
The dentist can look for a pocket, drainage point, root infection, or another source of swelling.