Discovering an unexpected bump on your gums can be unsettling if you have no idea what’s going on. While some gum bumps are completely harmless and go away on their own, others can be a sign of an underlying oral health problem that needs attention. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to tell the difference just by looking! Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes of gum bumps and when it’s time to call your dentist.
What Causes Bumps on Gum Tissue?
There are several reasons a bump might appear on your gums, ranging from minor irritations to more serious infections. Some examples include:
- Dental abscess – This is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often stemming from an untreated cavity, a cracked tooth, or advanced gum disease. Abscesses can appear as a pimple-like bump on the gums and are usually accompanied by throbbing pain, swelling, fever, and a foul taste in the mouth.
- Canker sore – These are small ulcers that can develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth, including the gums. They’re typically white or yellow with a red border and can be quite painful, especially when eating or drinking. They usually heal on their own within one to two weeks, though larger sores may warrant a closer look from your dentist.
- Cyst – These are fluid-filled sacs that can form around the roots of your teeth or at the base of your teeth. They’re often painless in the early stages, which means many people don’t notice them until they grow large enough to cause visible swelling. Left untreated, they can damage the surrounding bone and teeth.
- Gum disease – Advanced gum disease can sometimes cause the formation of a periodontal abscess, which may appear as a bump on the gums. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of bacteria-laden plaque and tartar along and beneath the gumline. Without treatment, periodontitis can lead to tooth and bone loss.
- Oral cancer – Oral cancer sores or growths don’t always hurt, which is why they can be easy to overlook. If you have a bump that has been present for more than two weeks and doesn’t seem to be healing, it’s important to have it evaluated by your dentist right away.
When Should I See My Dentist?
A bump that seems minor could be an early warning sign of something more serious. Not every gum bump requires an emergency visit, but certain symptoms should signal you to call your dentist as soon as possible:
- The bump is painful, swollen, or accompanied by a fever
- You notice pus or a bad taste near the bump
- The bump has been present for more than two weeks without improving
- You’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity along with the bump
- The bump is growing in size
- You have difficulty chewing, swallowing, or opening your mouth
- The surrounding gum tissue appears dark red, purple, or white
Remember, many gum bumps are preventable with good oral hygiene habits and routine dental care. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular checkups and cleanings can go a long way toward keeping infections, disease, and abnormal tissue growth at bay!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Kevin Grill, our team here at Northwest Family Dental of Huntsville has served the dental needs of patients and families in Huntsville and the surrounding areas for several years. We offer a wide range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatment options, as well as emergency dentistry for patients with urgent needs. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can call or reach out online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (937) 843-3932.