Regularly paying attention to your dental condition helps you identify concerning changes that may indicate an underlying issue. For example, if you realize that you have recently developed a small lump on your gums, it’s natural to wonder what caused it and whether it’s considered an emergency.
There are several reasons this can happen, and some are more urgent attention than others. Whatever is behind the growth, you will need your dentist’s help to identify and treat it. Continue reading to learn 3 common causes for a lump on your gums so you know when to contact your provider!
Cause #1: Fibroma
If the lump in your mouth is dome-shaped, firm, and the same color as the surrounding tissue (not darker or inflamed), then there’s a fair chance you have a fibroma. This is one of the most common reasons for developing tumor-like bumps on the gums.
As intimidating as these lumps can be, they’re usually not harmful. They’re typically painless and benign, so they don’t always require treatment. With that said, they can also grow on the insides of your cheeks, beneath your dentures if you wear them, inside your lips, and on the sides of your tongue. If they interfere with your ability to eat or speak or grow too large, they can often be surgically removed.
Cause #2: Cyst
If you have a lump or swelling in the connective tissues at the base of a specific tooth, it could be a cyst. These small, fluid-filled sacs can appear on your gums or cheek tissues, often around the roots of dead teeth. As it grows, the added pressure on nearby teeth can cause aches, inflammation, and pressure that can eventually contribute to tooth loss.
Often, an emergency root canal can address the underlying infection. Once the fluid buildup is alleviated and your tooth is sanitized to prevent a repeat occurrence, your dentist will likely provide a customized dental crown to restore its appearance and functionality.
Cause #3: Abscess
Your mouth is full of bacteria, some of which are harmful and contribute to common oral issues, such as cavities and gum disease. If these germs penetrate your connective tissues, they can create small, warm bumps of infected pus. Unfortunately, this can cause additional symptoms, such as increasingly intense throbbing, pain on one side of the face that spreads to the jaw or neck, and aches that worsen when lying down.
You must act as quickly as possible to address the infection to preserve the sensitive roots inside your teeth. Contact your dentist immediately for an emergency appointment so they can assess your situation and treat the damage before it worsens.
If you’re still unsure of what type of lump you’re dealing with, the best way to learn is to schedule an appointment with your oral healthcare provider!
Meet the Author
Dr. Julia Karpman is passionate about helping families in Rocky Hill improve their daily lives by enhancing their dental health. She earned her dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and has since completed additional training in topics like oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, emergency dentistry, anesthesia, and more. Today, she combines a caring approach with advanced technology to improve patient comfort while providing accurate treatment results. If you have a lump on your gums and need help, you can contact the office on the website or by calling (860) 563-3766.