Bumps can form on a person’s gums for a wide variety of reasons, and not all of them represent dental emergencies. In some cases, a bump can form due to irritation caused by plaque, food debris, or a dental appliance and will go away on its own if the irritant is removed. However, some bumps are the result of nasty gum infections or other oral health issues. Here’s a brief guide to a few types of bumps found on gums and how to tell if you should contact your emergency dentist.
Oral Cyst
An oral cyst is a small mass filled with fluid, and it can form on your gums or inner cheek. These can be caused by impacted teeth and oral injuries, and they may be painful for some people. However, these growths develop slowly and may be asymptomatic for a long time. In some cases, an untreated cyst can become infected, which can result in swelling as well as much discomfort. If you have an oral cyst, it’s important to have it checked out by an oral health professional to make sure that it is not cancerous.
Dental Abscess
An abscess is a small accumulation of pus caused by bacterial infection, and one on the gums is called a periodontal abscess. This serious infection may result in symptoms like:
- A soft, warm bump on the gums
- Throbbing pain that hits suddenly and becomes progressively worse
- Pain on one side of the face radiating to the ear, jaw, or neck
- Pain that worsens when you lie down
- Swelling and redness of the face or gums
A periodontal abscess is a dental emergency that requires the immediate attention of a qualified oral health professional. During treatment, your dentist will drain the pus and may have to perform a root canal or a tooth extraction to completely eliminate the infection.
Canker Sore
A canker sore is a small ulcer in the mouth that forms at the base of the gums. While they are completely harmless, they can be painful or irritating. Symptoms include:
- White or yellow spots that are red around the edges forming on the gums
- Flat or slightly swollen bumps
- Severe gum sensitivity
- Pain when drinking or eating
Canker sores will usually go away on their own after about two weeks, so they aren’t a dental emergency. If you deal with this problem, you can reduce your discomfort by using an over-the-counter analgesic according to the instructions on the label.
Finding a bump on your gums can be quite unsettling, and knowing how to tell if it counts as a dental emergency can allow you to get the care you need in a timely manner. Seeing your emergency dentist when necessary can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.
About the Practice
Connection Dentistry provides the most excellent oral healthcare available in the Raleigh area. Led by Drs. Brandon D. Rensch and Christine D. Laster, the staff maintains a warm and welcoming office environment while treating patients with exceptional courtesy and customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about a bump on your gums, contact the office online. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, dial (919) 787-0355.