Gum Bumps: What They Mean and How to Treat Them

Have you ever noticed a mysterious bump on your gums that just won’t go away? It’s a common concern for many people, but the good news is that most gum bumps are harmless and easily treatable. However, the first step is understanding the potential causes behind these bumps so you can address them effectively. If you’re curious as to the origins of your oral invader and how your dentist can treat it, continue reading.

Where Did My Gum Bump Come From?

So, how do these small gum bumps form anyway? Here are a few potential causes:

Canker Sores

These painful, round ulcers can develop on the gums or inside the mouth for many reasons. Stress, hormonal changes, and orally irritating foods like pineapple or sour candies high in citric acid.

Dental Cysts

Dental cysts can form on your gums around dead or impacted teeth. They grow slowly over time and may not cause symptoms unless they become infected.

Dental Abscess

If the root of a tooth becomes infected, it can result in a painful lump or swelling on the gums. This is often accompanied by redness and pus that causes the lump to swell. This is a dangerous gum bump that must be treated immediately.

Trauma or Injury

Accidental injury to the gums, like biting down on a hard object or aggressive tooth brushing, can cause gum bumps. These are usually harmless and should heal on their own.

Oral Cancer

Though rare, some gum bumps are a sign of oral cancer. If caught quick enough, your dentist should be able to remove it and stop it from spreading.

How Can I Prevent or Treat Gum Bumps?

Depending on the type of oral affliction you’re faced with, you can treat it with a suitable method below:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help prevent gum disease and reduce the risk of developing gum bumps.
• Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter oral gels or mouth rinses with benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide can provide relief from pain and inflammation associated with gum bumps.
• Warm Saltwater Rinse: Gargling with warm saltwater can help reduce swelling and promote healing of gum sores or ulcers.
• Professional Dental Treatment: In cases of severe gum disease or dental abscesses, professional dental treatment is often necessary. Scaling and root planing, laser treatment, or drainage are all ways dentists use to treat these gingival issues.

So, while gum bumps can be alarming, they are often harmless and treatable with proper oral care. If you notice some uncomfortable oral bumps on your gums or elsewhere in your mouth, don’t delay, see your dentist. They will offer their expert advice and help create a treatment plan to get your oral health back in shape.

About the Practice

Gum bumps got you down? Dr. Jeffrey R. DeMartino and Dr. Nélida Garcia-DeMartino are both professional and friendly dental experts who enjoy helping their patients achieve perfect oral health. They offer personalized treatment plans that can help you get back to smiling bright and feeling great. Call (908) 859-5260 to schedule a periodontal treatment consultation at DeMartino Dental Group, P.C. or visit the website to learn more.