1.Dental Abscess: A dental abscess occurs when there is an infection at the root of a tooth. It can cause significant pain and swelling in the affected area.
2.Gum Infection (Abscess or Gingivitis): An infection of the gums can also cause swelling in the mouth. Gum infections can arise from poor dental hygiene, certain medical conditions, or injury to the mouth.
3.Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes are small glands that play a role in the body's immune system. When the body is fighting an infection, lymph nodes can swell up, and sometimes this can be noticeable in the neck or under the jaw, causing one side of the mouth to appear swollen.
4.Allergic Reaction (Angioedema): Severe allergic reactions can cause angioedema, which is a rapid swelling of tissues, including the face, mouth, and lips. This can happen due to allergies to foods, insect bites, certain medications, or latex.
5.Mumps: Mumps is a viral infection that most commonly affects children, causing swelling in the salivary glands near the ears. This swelling can extend to the mouth, making one side appear swollen.
6.Facial Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and soft tissues of the face can cause significant swelling. If the infection is located on one side of the face, it can result in noticeable swelling on that side of the mouth.
7.Trauma/Injury: Direct trauma to the face or mouth, such as from a sports injury or an accident, can cause swelling and bruising.
8.Oral Cancer: In rare cases, one-sided swelling in the mouth could be a symptom of oral cancer. However, this is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, persistent sores, or difficulty swallowing.
If you experience sudden or significant swelling of one side of your mouth, it's essential to seek medical attention, especially if accompanied by fever, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems. A healthcare professional can determine the specific cause of the swelling and recommend appropriate treatment. Self-diagnosis and treatment are not advisable.