Which condition is associated with an infection that may lead to swelling and pain in the gums?

The condition associated with infection that may lead to swelling and pain in the gums is pericoronitis. This condition occurs when a flap of gum tissue partially covers a tooth, typically an impacted wisdom tooth. The food particles and bacteria can accumulate under the gum flap, leading to inflammation, infection, swelling, and pain in the affected area.

Pericoronitis is particularly common in young adults whose wisdom teeth are erupting, and it can result in significant discomfort and complications if not treated properly. Treatment usually involves cleaning the area, addressing the infection, and in some cases, surgical removal of the partially erupted tooth may be necessary.

The other options do not specifically relate to gum infections in the same way. For instance, poor dentition refers more broadly to dental issues like decay or misalignment, while a septal hematoma is an accumulation of blood between the nasal septum and the mucosa, which is unrelated to gum health. Normal jaw approximation does not indicate any condition or problem but rather refers to the proper alignment of the teeth and jaws.