Wisdom tooth pain and swollen gum: what to do

A sore, swollen gum at the very back of the mouth is one of the most common wisdom tooth problems. It can come on quickly and make it hard to chew or open your mouth.

Why does it happen?

When a wisdom tooth comes through only partly, a flap of gum can stay over it. Food and bacteria get trapped under the flap, and the gum becomes infected. Dentists call this pericoronitis. It often happens in the late teens and twenties.

What are the signs?

• A red, swollen, sore gum behind the last tooth
• Pain that may spread to the ear, jaw or throat
• A bad taste or smell, sometimes with pus
• Trouble opening your mouth fully
• Sometimes swollen glands under the jaw or a mild fever

What can you do at home?

• Rinse gently with warm water with a little salt, several times a day, especially after food.
• Clean the area carefully with a small, soft brush, or use floss with care. Do not avoid it.
• Use a cold pack, wrapped in cloth, on the outside of the cheek for a few minutes at a time.
• Eat soft food and chew on the other side. Avoid biting on the swollen gum.
• Ask a doctor or pharmacist about safe pain medicine, especially if you are pregnant or have a health condition. Do not put a tablet on the gum.

What should you not do?

Do not squeeze or cut the gum, and do not put alcohol or tobacco on it. See toothache home remedies: safe and not safe.

How does a dentist treat it?

The dentist cleans under the flap, rinses out the area, and checks the tooth with an X-ray. Sometimes they prescribe antibiotics. They are not always needed, and they do not replace cleaning. If the problem keeps coming back, they may advise removing the wisdom tooth, or sometimes the gum flap. See do wisdom teeth need to come out?.

When it is urgent

Get help the same day, or go to a hospital emergency department, if the swelling spreads to your cheek, eye or neck, you have a fever, or you find it hard to swallow, breathe or open your mouth. These can be signs of a spreading infection. Read dental emergency: when to go today and swollen or painful gums.

When to see a dentist

Come in soon, even if it eases. It usually comes back. Dental care is available at both our clinics, in Sayan and on Chhaprabhatha-Variyav Road. Use the booking button below to ask for an appointment.