Our mouths are wondrous ecosystems, teeming with activity and home to many mysteries. One such enigma that often raises eyebrows (and concerns) is the sudden appearance of bumps on the gums. Our family dentist in Duncan, OK, is here to explain.
When dental mysteries arise, you can trust Dr. Matthew Bridges and the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center to get to the bottom of them. Are you dealing with toothy troubles? Give our family dentist in Duncan, OK, a call at (580) 255-4880 now!
If you’ve ever run your tongue along your gums only to discover an unfamiliar bump, you know it can be a bit worrying. However, understanding these bumps can turn that concern into knowledge and empower you to take appropriate action. So, today, our family dentist in Duncan, OK, explains bumps on the gums.
The Usual Suspects: Common Types of Gum Bumps
A range of issues can cause bumps on the gums, including:
Canker Sores
Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can pop up out of nowhere.
They often develop on the inside of the lips or cheeks, but sometimes on the gums, too. These ulcers are typically round, white or yellow in the center, and red around the edges.
While they usually heal on their own within a week or two, over-the-counter topical treatments can help ease the discomfort.
Dental Abscesses
A dental abscess is a serious condition. It occurs when an infection leads to the formation of a pus-filled bump on the gums.
Abscesses are remarkably painful, and they are often accompanied by a foul taste and odor in the mouth and a fever.
Dental abscesses require prompt professional treatment with our family dentist in Duncan, OK.
Oral Fibromas
Friction on the gums can cause firm, smooth, and painless bumps called fibromas. While fibromas are usually nothing to worry about, they can be annoying.
They don’t go away on their own and may need to be surgically removed if they cause pain or disrupt daily activities.
Gingival Cysts
Gingival cysts are small, fluid-filled bumps that appear on the gums, usually in the front of the mouth.
They’re generally painless and not harmful, often arising from developmental issues with the gums. Most of the time, no treatment is needed unless they become bothersome or infected.
Why do these bumps develop?
Gum bumps develop for various reasons, including:
- Infections: Bacterial overgrowth can lead to infections, abscesses, and swollen gums.
- Injuries: Brushing too hard or repetitive behaviors can cause trauma.
- Irritation: Braces and dentures can rub against the gums.
- Systemic Conditions: Diabetes or hormonal changes can affect gum health.
- Immune Responses: Autoimmune diseases can cause inflammatory bumps.
What to do about gum bumps?
Encountering a bump on your gums can be unsettling, but here are some steps to take:
Assess and Monitor
Check for accompanying symptoms like pain, swelling, or fever. If the bump doesn’t improve within a week or worsens, seek professional advice from our family dentist in Duncan, OK.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Never compromise on daily oral hygiene. So, clean your teeth in the morning and before bedtime, and don’t forget to floss!
Home Remedies
For minor irritation or canker sores, gargling with a solution of water and salt can reduce inflammation.
Seek Professional Help
If the bump is painful, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, schedule a visit with our family dentist in Duncan, OK.
Visit Our Five-star Family Dentist in Duncan, OK
In many cases, gum bumps are nothing to worry about. But if you’re experiencing pain or disruption to your daily life, it’s best to consult with our family dentist in Duncan, OK. Contact Dr. Bridges online here, or call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at (580) 255-4880 for more information.
