Finding a bump on your gums can be unsettling, especially if it appears suddenly or feels tender. The truth is, there are several possible explanations—some harmless and others that may require professional treatment. While not every bump is a sign of serious concern, it’s always best to have your dentist take a closer look to determine the cause.
Here are a few common reasons why a bump might appear on your gums and when you should consider scheduling an appointment.
Gum Abscess or Infection
One of the most common causes of a bump on the gums is a dental abscess, which forms when bacteria cause an infection inside the tooth or gum tissue. An abscess typically appears as a small, swollen bump that may be red, painful, or filled with pus. You might also experience a bad taste in your mouth, swelling in your face, or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
A gum abscess is a sign that infection has spread beneath the surface, and it won’t go away on its own. Your dentist will need to drain the abscess and treat the underlying infection—often through deep cleaning, antibiotics, or root canal therapy—to prevent it from spreading further.
Cysts and Growths
Not every bump is caused by infection. In some cases, it could be a cyst—a fluid-filled sac that forms near the roots of teeth or along the gumline. Dental cysts often develop slowly and may not cause pain at first. However, if left untreated, they can enlarge and damage nearby bone or teeth.
Other benign growths, such as fibromas, can also form due to chronic irritation, such as rubbing from dentures or braces. These soft tissue growths are generally harmless but should still be evaluated to rule out more serious conditions.
Canker Sores or Ulcers
If the bump on your gums is small, white, or yellow with a red border, it could be a canker sore. These ulcers can appear anywhere in the mouth and are often caused by stress, irritation, or minor injury (like brushing too hard or eating acidic foods).
Canker sores usually heal on their own within one to two weeks, but if they persist longer than that—or keep returning—your dentist may want to investigate possible underlying causes, such as nutritional deficiencies or immune conditions.
Oral Cancer or Precancerous Lesions
Though rare, a bump on your gums could also be an early sign of oral cancer. Cancerous or precancerous lesions may look like firm lumps, thickened areas, or sores that don’t heal. They can appear white, red, or mixed in color and are often painless in the early stages.
If you notice a persistent bump that doesn’t improve after two weeks, or if it bleeds easily or changes in size, it’s important to see your dentist or doctor right away for an evaluation. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
When to See Your Dentist
Even if the bump on your gums doesn’t hurt, it’s smart to have it checked by a professional. Your dentist can determine whether it’s an infection, cyst, or something more serious and recommend appropriate treatment. The sooner you seek care, the easier it is to prevent complications and protect your oral health.
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or signs of infection, don’t wait—these could be dental emergencies that require prompt attention.
Your gums play a vital role in your overall oral health, and noticing changes early can make all the difference in keeping your smile healthy.
About the Practice
Magic Touch Dental provides gentle, comprehensive dental care for families in Pasadena and the surrounding area. Dr. Verjee and the team offer a wide range of services, including emergency dental care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic dentistry. If you’ve noticed a bump on your gums or are experiencing oral discomfort, come see us for fast, stress-free care.
Call us at (713) 943-9993 or request an appointment online.