Slightly puffy cheek to the right of my nose

I'm asking this here because I believe it's related to my teeth and/or gum's. Specifically which, I'm unsure of.

Just the other night, I started experiencing minor toothaches. Admittedly, my teeth aren't perfect. Honestly, they're far from it. However, it was only until recently this became a problem worth mentioning.

Anyway... I'm looking in the mirror and I'm noticing that my right cheek, not even an inch away from my nose, has begun to get puffy. It's nothing too noticeable, but it appears as though the swelling(?) is becoming more obvious. It doesn't hurt until it's touched and the more pressure I apply, the greater the pain is. The reason I believe it's tooth related, is because upon touching it, the pain is located in my upper gum area; almost directly below the swelling.

The area that I'm referring to, a tooth has been lost, and cavities are residing to each side of it. This missing tooth, however, wasn't removed professionally. Actually, I don't remember why it's gone, but now there's a hole in my gum which could explain my problem. I'm not certain, nor do I know what specifically could be causing it.

As easy as it would be to consult a dentist or even a doctor, I'm currently unemployed and wouldn't even be able to afford a look, let alone any procedure that may need done. Hopefully this problem, the newly developed puffiness in my cheek, its sensitivity, and whatever else is resulting from it, isn't something severe and can just go away in a matter of days. For anyone who can shed some insight on the issue, it'd be much appreciated.

Thanks.

[S D Buck, DDS, LVIM]

I would have to answer you with something that you already know. You would want to see a dentist YESTERDAY. This is an infection which could be related to a broken root you may have in there or the teeth next to the area where you have lost the tooth. Either way, this is something that does not go away on its own, even if the swelling goes down and the infection can spread, destroy more bone and more teeth which could make the situation more complicated, needing more complicated treatment and it would make things more costly.This infection needs to be taken care of asap my friend.