Swollen gum around one tooth: causes and what to do

Swelling of the gum around just one tooth usually has a local cause. Sometimes it is minor, such as food trapped under the gum, but it can also be a sign of infection.

Common causes include trapped food (popcorn husks are a classic), a gum infection, a dental abscess, or the gum over a wisdom tooth becoming inflamed. A small pimple-like bump on the gum that leaks a bad taste can mean an abscess is draining.

What you can try: brush and floss gently around the tooth to remove anything trapped, and rinse with warm salty water a few times a day. Take pain relief that is safe for you as directed. Do not try to burst a swelling.

Speak to a dentist if the swelling does not settle within a day or two, the tooth is painful, you notice pus or a bad taste, or you feel unwell or have a temperature. On a video consultation a dentist can look at the gum and decide what you need.

Go to A&E or call 999 if swelling spreads into your face, towards your eye or neck, or you have difficulty breathing, swallowing or opening your mouth.