If you looked in your bathroom mirror to find a mysterious bump on your gums, your first thought might’ve been something like, “What in the world?” This is understandable! Out-of-place lumps can be a strange sight to see anywhere on your body, but your mouth is probably the last place you expected to find one!
Some oral bumps are concerning dental emergencies that should be promptly treated by a dentist. Others, not so much. If you want a better sense of what could be going on, keep reading.
Oral Cyst
Cysts are worth having checked by a medical professional. These discolored masses are filled with air or liquid, and when you see one close to your pearly whites, it could mean that there’s an impacted or decayed tooth nearby. Both potential causes should be treated right away!
Periodontal Abscess
In dentistry, “periodontal” refers to your teeth’s supporting structures. Most of the time, this means your gums and is certainly the case for a periodontal abscess. If you develop an infection in your tooth or surrounding gums, pus can collect to form this gross bubble. Oral infections are dental emergencies, so you should call your dentist – and don’t pop the bump!
Oral Thrush
Not all infections are the same. Oral thrush is a specific type that’s caused by Candida yeast. It’ll typically appear as a cluster of white patches in your mouth; while it can cause some discomfort, it can be treated at home with antifungal medication. If that doesn’t do the trick, your dentist might be able to prescribe something a bit stronger that will!
Canker Sore
This is a type of bump you might be more familiar with. Canker sores are essentially harmless and, in most cases, fade after about a week. They can still be annoying though, so to relieve your discomfort in the meantime, take over-the-counter pain medication as directed. If ten weeks go by without results, call your dentist to make sure your sore isn’t something more serious.
Talk to Your Dentist to Be on The Safe Side
Urgent oral bumps often come with pain or tenderness, but not always. Even if you suspect your mysterious lump is a plain ‘ol canker sore, it’s wise to call up your dentist. They’ll keep you informed as they investigate and lay out your treatment options if they do find something suspicious. At the very least, they’ll still help you heal faster and alleviate your discomfort if your bump is non-threatening!
About the Practice
Dr. David Mace and Dr. Navi Dhaliwal have decades of experience in dentistry, and that expertise truly shows! From helping you feel comfortable and well-informed to providing you with quality treatment, they’ll address your needs every step of the way. If you’re concerned about a bump on your gums, call Dr. Mace and Dr. Dhaliwal’s office at 253-838-2018.