Healthy gums are usually smooth and pale pink, so finding a bump in the soft tissues around your teeth can be quite unsettling. While a bump on your gums does not always indicate a dental emergency, it may be the result of a serious oral infections. Here’s a quick overview of several kinds of bumps that can be found on gums as well as a few tips for handling the situation.
Cysts Are Often Benign
A cyst is a small tissue pocket filled with liquid, air, or soft solids, and one may form in the gums around your teeth. This often happens around the roots of dead or buried teeth, and dental cysts typically grow slowly and only cause symptoms if they become infected, resulting in pain and swelling. Infected cysts and those large enough to put pressure on the teeth can typically be removed with a minor surgical procedure.
You’ll Experience Much Distress if You Have an Abscess
A periodontal abscess is a small accumulation of pus caused by a bacterial infection, and it typically feels like soft, warm bump that causes a lot of pain. While it’s best to refrain from popping an abscess, you may taste a foul or sour liquid if yours breaks. Symptoms include:
- Throbbing pain that hits hard and only gets worse
- Pain on one side of the face spreading to the ear, jaw, or neck
- Your pain getting worse when you lie down
- Swelling or redness in your gums or face
A periodontal abscess is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. Your dentist may recommend treating it with a root canal or extracting the tooth if the infection is too advanced. If the tooth must be removed, your dentist will recommend an appropriate replacement.
Canker Sores Can Be Frustrating
Canker sores are small oral ulcers that often form on the base of the gums, and they are different from cold sores in that they are not caused by viruses. While canker sores are generally benign, they can sometimes be quite painful and can involve symptoms such as:
- White or yellowish spots with red borders
- Flat or barely raised bumps
- Sharp sensitivity
- Discomfort while eating and drinking
While most canker sores go away on their own after a few weeks, you can reduce your discomfort until then by using a store-bought oral analgesic.
Bumps on your gums aren’t always causes for alarm. However, contact your emergency dentist if you notice signs of a dental abscess or experience symptoms of infection such as fatigue, fever, and chills.
About the Practice
Skyline Dental of Morristown offers the finest oral health services in the area. Led by Dr. Aliana Henkin, the staff ensures that each patient receives the utmost compassion and courtesy in a calming and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about gum infections, contact the office online or dial (862) 260-4116.