Swelling in the gums or face is often a sign of a dental abscess, which is a collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection. This can occur at the end of a tooth root or in the gums next to a tooth. The swelling may feel tender or warm to the touch and can sometimes cause a visible lump on the gums.
In addition to swelling, you might experience a throbbing pain that radiates to the jaw, neck, or ear. Some patients notice a foul taste in the mouth if the abscess begins to drain. It is important to monitor if the swelling makes it difficult to breathe or swallow, as this indicates a serious medical emergency that requires immediate hospital attention.
A dentist will diagnose the cause of the swelling by examining the area and using X-rays to see how far the infection has spread. They will check for a dead nerve inside the tooth or deep gum pockets where bacteria could be trapped. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to determine if the tooth can be saved or if the infection needs drainage.
Treatment should never be delayed when swelling is present. A registered dentist will focus on removing the source of the infection, which may involve a root canal treatment or, in some cases, an extraction. They may also prescribe a course of antibiotics if the infection is spreading, though these only work alongside dental treatment to resolve the underlying issue.