Noticing a bump on your gums can be surprising as you’re going about your morning or evening hygiene routine—and frankly, it might cause you to worry! However, while many gum bumps end up being harmless or temporary, others can be a sign of a problem lurking beneath the surface that warrants professional attention. Here’s a closer look at a few of the most common causes of bumps on gums and how to tell when it’s time to contact your emergency dentist.
Common Causes of Bumps on Gums
1. Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is one of the most common reasons for a painful bump appearing on the gums. They occur when bacteria cause an infection in the tooth, and the result is throbbing, persistent pain and swelling. Abscesses do not resolve on their own, and treatment is needed to prevent the infection from spreading.
2. Canker Sore
Canker sores are small, round ulcers that can appear on the gums, often white or yellow in color with a red border around the bump. They’re not contagious, and they often pop up as a result of stress or irritation. Typically, they heal on their own within a week or two.
3. Fibroma
A fibroma is a harmless, non-cancerous growth that forms often in response to rubbing or irritation, sort of like how calluses form on your skin. They’re smooth, round, firm bumps that don’t cause pain, though they sometimes need to be removed if they continue to grow or cause discomfort.
4. Oral Cyst
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop near tooth roots or along the gumline. They aren’t usually painful at first, but over time, they can grow and cause problems. They should be evaluated by your dentist to ensure that they aren’t causing any damage to nearby teeth.
5. Oral Cancer
Oral cancer refers to cancer in any part of your oral cavity, including your gums. A cancerous tumor on your gums may look like a small growth, lump, or thickening of the skin. Dentists perform oral cancer screenings during routine checkups, and a biopsy can be taken to determine if your bump is cancerous before treatment options are reviewed.
When You Should See Your Dentist
Not all gum bumps are emergencies, but some absolutely need prompt care! You should contact your emergency dentist if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Pain that doesn’t improve or continues to worsen
- Swelling in your face, neck, or jaw
- The bump is releasing pus or has a bad taste
- Redness, fever, or other signs of infection
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or opening your mouth fully
- The bump lasts for more than 1 – 2 weeks
If you’re ever uncertain, it’s best to err on the side of caution and speak with your dentist. Though the situation might alarm you, it’s nothing that they can’t help you with!
About the Practice
With the talented Dr. Bo Tran leading our team, we proudly serve patients and families in Phoenix and the surrounding communities, offering a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options. We also offer same-day emergency dentistry for those with urgent needs. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule an appointment at our Phoenix office, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (602) 944-7199.