The swelling of gum around one tooth in the back can be due to several common reasons:
- Food debris or trapped food particles stuck between the tooth and gum can irritate the gum tissue, causing localized swelling and discomfort. Poor oral hygiene or skipped flossing often leads to this condition.
- Erupting or impacted wisdom teeth, which may not have enough space to come through properly, can cause swelling, pressure, and pain in the gum around the last molar.
- Gum disease like gingivitis or periodontitis, caused by bacteria and plaque buildup around the tooth, leads to inflammation and gum swelling.
- A dental abscess, which is a bacterial infection in the tooth or gum resulting in pus formation, can cause severe swelling and pain localized around one tooth.
- Trauma or irritation from biting hard foods, cracked teeth, or dental devices can inflame the gum at one spot.
If the swelling is painful, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, bad taste, or spreading pain, it is advisable to seek dental care promptly to diagnose and treat the underlying cause effectively. Improving oral hygiene and removing any trapped food particles may relieve minor swelling due to irritation.
