You know that nagging feeling that something isn’t right inside your mouth, but you really aren’t sure if you should ignore it or call your dentist? Maybe your gum tissue is swollen around one tooth, but it isn’t very painful, so you’re tempted to go about your day.
The truth is that swelling can sometimes be a minor inconvenience that can be treated at home, but it can also indicate an infection.
Let’s explore when you can treat this issue and when it might require emergency care.
Minor Irritation vs. Abscess
If your gum tissue is tender and swollen around one tooth, here’s how to tell the difference between temporary irritation and an abscess:
Irritation
- You may feel a mild, dull ache, especially if something is trapped under your gums.
- Your gum tissue could be slightly red and a bit puffy.
- You could experience slight sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
- You may have bad breath if food is trapped under your gums.
- You should feel fine physically.
Abscess
- You’ll likely feel continuous, throbbing pain.
- You could have a pimple on your gums.
- You may feel intense pain when you bite down or chew.
- You could have a foul, bitter taste in your mouth.
- You might have a fever or chills associated with the infection.
Home vs. Emergency Care
A dental abscess requires medical attention, so it’s best to contact our clinic for an appointment. We may recommend a root canal, extraction or other emergency treatment, depending on your unique situation.
- For minor irritation, there are some things you can do at home:
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to keep the area clean and reduce inflammation.
- Gently floss the area to dislodge any trapped food particles.
- Place a cold compress on your face to numb the area and alleviate discomfort.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication for temporary pain relief.
Oral Health Questions in Clifton Hill, VIC?
If you’re concerned about your oral health, please don’t hesitate to contact our dental team. We want every patient to receive the quality care they deserve, so if your gums are swollen, you have a toothache or you’re experiencing any other issue, we’re just a phone call away.