Have you recently discovered a bump on your gums? If so, it is understandable if you are concerned. It could point to a serious problem! What exactly causes bumps on gums, and how can you tell if you should seek professional treatment from an emergency dentist? This blog post shares some helpful advice.
Cyst
A cyst is a small pocket or bump that contains air, liquid, or other soft materials. Cysts tend to form around the roots of teeth whose nerve has died, as well as those that are stuck beneath the gumline (impacted). Most cysts are painless as long as they remain uninfected. It is best to get them removed before they grow large enough to put pressure on your jaw and weaken it. The procedure to remove cysts is quite simple.
Abscess
An abscess is a small bump that looks like a pimple. This issue can be associated with throbbing, severe pain that radiates throughout the face. An abscess is a true dental emergency and should receive prompt treatment. Otherwise, the infection that originally caused it can lead to widespread damage to your oral tissues and systemic health.
Canker Sore
A canker sore is a small ulcer that forms on the gums. They might come from ill-fitting dentures or other causes. They can be quite tender and painful. The good news is that canker sores usually heal on their own. In the meantime, an oral analgesic can help to minimize discomfort.
Fibroma
Fibromas are noncancerous bumps that may form after the gums get injured or irritated. They may come in the form of hard lumps, but they can also resemble skin tags. They are usually not painful, and they do not always require treatment. However, if you have a fibroma that is bothering you, your dentist may be able to remove it via a straightforward surgical procedure.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can come in various forms. Sometimes, it is a small bump on the gums. In other cases, it is a patch of discolored tissue or a thickening of the gum tissue. It is important to get screened for oral cancer at least once a year so your dentist can refer you for additional testing and treatment if necessary.
When to Seek Treatment
If you have any strange or painful bumps on your gums, it is worth having your dentist take a look. If there is a serious issue, prompt treatment could spare you from future problems and might even save your life!
Meet the Practice
At Family Dental Practice of Bloomfield, we strive to be available whenever our patients need us. We can often accept emergency patients on a same-day basis. We offer a range of treatments that can reduce oral pain and protect your long-term oral health. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, get in touch with our friendly team at 860-263-0441.