Your gums get exposed to a lot of bacteria, food particles, and other potential sources of irritation. It is not surprising that many people notice abnormalities on their gums from time to time. For example, you might see a bump there. Why might there be a bump on your gums, and how can you tell if you need emergency dental treatment? This blog post explains.
Abscess
An abscess is a small collection of pus that may resemble a pimple. Abscesses are the result of an infection and can cause severe pain in the mouth, face, and even down the neck. They may also be accompanied by facial swelling. If you suspect you have an abscess, you should call your dentist right away to request an emergency appointment.
Cyst
A cyst is a small bubble that contains air, liquid, or other soft substances. Cysts often form around impacted teeth (such as the wisdom teeth). These are usually harmless, but they can cause pain if they become infected. They can also grow large enough to place pressure on the teeth and jaw, which may weaken your bone over time. Cysts are usually easy to treat via a simple surgical procedure.
Canker Sore
Canker sores are mouth ulcers. They often have white or yellow spots and a red border. Although they can be very painful, they are usually harmless. They often resolve on their own within a week or two. An over-the-counter analgesic can reduce the pain.
Fibroma
A fibroma is a noncancerous lump that may form due to irritation from dentures or other oral devices. They are usually painless and may look like dangling skin tags. They may be a slightly lighter or darker color than the surrounding gum tissue. If a fibroma grows very large, it might need to be surgically removed.
Oral Cancer
A cancerous growth may appear as a lump, bump, or sore on your gums. Here are some signs that may indicate oral cancer:
- There is a sore that will not heal.
- There is a red or white patch on your gums.
- You are experiencing pain in your mouth or throat.
- You have inexplicably loose teeth.
- It is difficult for you to chew and swallow.
Your dentist can perform an oral cancer screening and refer you for further testing if necessary.
When to Call Your Dentist
A good rule of thumb is to get in touch with your dentist if you are experiencing oral pain or if you cannot be sure what is causing the bump on your gums. Remember, it is always best to err on the side of caution! Your dentist can assess the situation and provide appropriate advice and/or treatment.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Shawn Schlessel and Benjamin Hornstein work together at the Center for Advanced Dentistry to provide top-quality care to our community. They and our team always strive to accommodate emergency cases as soon as possible. If you have concerns or questions about your oral health, we are ready to serve you! Contact our Beachwood, OH, office at 216-595-1710.