After waking up one morning, you head to the bathroom to start your oral hygiene routine. Just as you’re about to brush your teeth, you realize that there’s a bump on your gums. Oh no! Your first instinct may be to panic, but rest assured – it’s usually not a medical emergency. Bumps can be harmless, but there are some cases where they indicate serious oral health issues. That said, here are a few possible causes of a bump on your gums and signs you should see your dentist.
What Causes a Bump on the Gums?
Do you have a bump on your gums? Here are some possible causes.
Cyst
Most dental cysts form around the roots of dead or buried teeth. They’re small bubbles filled with air, liquid, and other soft materials. They grow slowly over time, rarely causing symptoms unless they’re infected. If that happens, you may notice some pain and swelling around the bump. Most dental cysts are easy to remove with a surgical procedure.
Abscess
A periodontal abscess is a small collection of pus typically caused by bacterial infections. It may feel like a painful, soft, warm bump. If you think you may have this, you should see your dentist as soon as possible so they can remove the source of infection and drain the pus.
Canker Sore
Canker sores are mouth ulcers that form at the base of the gums. Although these are typically harmless, they can be painful when they’re inside your mouth. Most sores heal on their own within one to two weeks. For pain relief, you can apply an over-the-counter analgesic to the area.
Fibroma
Oral fibromas are the most common cause of bumps on the gums. They’re noncancerous lumps that form on the irritated or injured gum tissue. If they develop on the gums, it’s usually because of irritation from dentures or other oral devices. Fibromas are typically painless and feel like hard, smooth, dome-shaped lumps. Most cases do not require dental treatment.
Pyogenic Granuloma
An oral pyogenic granuloma is a red bump that develops in your mouth and gums. It’s often characterized as a swollen, blood-filled lump that bleeds easily. Although their cause is still unclear, experts believe minor injuries and irritation plays a role. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the lump.
Mandibular Torus
A mandibular torus is a bony growth in the upper or lower jaw. Even though it is relatively common, doctors aren’t sure what causes it. It can appear alone or in a cluster on one or both sides of the jaw. A mandibular torus usually feels hard and rarely requires treatment.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Most bumps on gums are harmless, but you should see a dentist right away if you notice any of the following:
- Fever
- Throbbing pain
- Foul taste in the mouth or foul-smelling breath
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- A sore that’s worsening
- Red or white patches inside your mouth or on your lips
- A bleeding sore or lump
If you’re in doubt, schedule an appointment with your dentist to find the underlying cause for the bump on your gums. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
About the Practice
At Salvaggio Dentistry, we provide exceptional, comprehensive, individually tailored services guaranteed to meet all your oral health needs. Our team will always go above and beyond to help you achieve your happiest, healthiest smile. If you’re worried about a bump on your gums, don’t hesitate to contact us. We can determine the underlying cause and give you the prompt relief you deserve. Visit our website or call (289) 569-0721 to make an appointment.