Gum disease is one of the most common health problems in the world, and it can range in severity from mild irritation to permanent damage. While gingivitis will show itself through symptoms like inflammation, bleeding, and redness and periodontitis can be identified through signs like gum erosion, persistent bad breath, and a foul taste in your mouth, a bump on your gums may be a sign of a different sort of infection. Here’s what can cause a bump to form on your gums and how you can manage the issue.
Canker Sores
Canker sores are tiny, pale, round, painful bumps that can form on the gums, tongue, soft palate, lips, and inner cheeks. Scientists aren’t sure exactly what caused canker sores, but some research suggests that they happen when the immune system inadvertently attacks the cells in the mouth’s lining. Thankfully, these frustrating blemishes are no cause for alarm and will usually go away on their own, but there are many products at pharmacies that may be able to help you reduce your discomfort.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is a yeast infection within the mouth, and it can lead to unsightly white patches or bumps on the gums, tongue, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth. A person with oral thrush may notice redness, soreness, or a cottony feeling in their oral cavity, a loss of taste, discomfort when eating, or redness or cracking at the corners of the mouth.
This issue can be caused by poor oral health, a compromised immune system, and certain medications like antibiotics and inhaled corticosteroids. In some cases, it can even be caused by excessive mouthwash use. Oral thrush is not a dental emergency, and it can usually be treated with antifungal medicines.
Periodontal Abscess
A periodontal abscess is a pocket of pus within the gum tissue surrounding a tooth, and it is a sign of a severe oral infection. It may first appear as a red bump emerging through inflamed gum tissue, and it can lead to throbbing pain in the adjacent teeth. This issue is typically caused by untreated gum disease, and it can lead to tooth loss and irreversible gum erosion. Periodontal abscesses require immediate treatment from an emergency dentist.
Excellent oral hygiene and smart eating decisions are the best ways to prevent destructive oral infections. However, knowing when to seek the help of an emergency dentist can allow you to keep your smile healthy and complete when a crisis happens.
About the Practice
Harbor Dental Center offers the finest oral health services in Cambridge. Led by Drs. Bhatt and Todd, the staff ensures that each patient receives courteous and compassionate treatment in a friendly and clean office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about gum disease, contact the office online or dial (410) 228-5445.