Why is There a Bump on My Gums?

Let’s say your teeth are doing pretty well at the moment. They’re smooth, white, and free of infections and decay! However, something’s going on with your gum tissue — it seems to have a bump of some sort. Should you be concerned? Maybe, but it’ll ultimately depend on the problem’s source. Luckily, your Rexburg dental practice is here to help you figure things out. Read on to learn the possible causes of a bump on gums and when you should see a dentist for it.

Possible Causes of a Bump on Gums

In most cases, gum bumps are harmless and naturally fade over time. Even so, they can sometimes point to serious oral health issues. That said, you’ll want to know what’s causing your own. Common triggers for a bump on gums include:

A DENTAL CYST:

Cysts, in general, are tiny bubbles filled with air, liquid, or other soft materials. Dental cysts, then, form on your gums around your teeth. They often appear near the roots of dead or buried teeth and grow slowly over time.

Doctors can remove dental cysts with straightforward surgery that keeps them from returning.

AN ORAL FIBROMA

An oral fibroma — the most common cause of bumps on the gums — is a noncancerous lump that forms on irritated or injured gum tissue. One usually happens due to irritation from dentures or other oral devices.

Fibromas normally don’t require treatment. If you have a large one, though, your doctor can surgically remove it.

ORAL CANCER:

Oral cancer, sometimes called mouth cancer, is cancer in any part of your oral cavity, including your gums. When a cancerous tumor appears on the latter tissue, it often looks like a small growth, lump, or thickening of the skin.

If you’re worried that a bump might be cancerous, it’s best to follow up with your doctor to put your mind at ease and start treatment as early as possible.

Signs You Should See Your Dentist

You should see your dentist right away if you experience the following symptoms in addition to a gum bump:

• A fever
• Throbbing pain
• Foul-smelling breath
• A sore that doesn’t heal or gets worse
• A lump that doesn’t go away after a few weeks
• Red or white patches in your mouth
• A bleeding sore or lump

To be safe, you can always have your dentist determine the cause of your gum bump. That way, you can know for sure whether it needs more serious attention.

About the Practice

Cornerstone Family Dental is based in Rexburg, ID. As led by Dr. Bo Crofoot, the practice puts patients at ease with its excellent, affordable, and comprehensive dental services. To that end, its staff provides preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including emergency tooth treatments. The Cornerstone team also offers dental sedation and periodontal care. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them on their website or by phone at (507)-288-1066.