A bump on your gums usually isn’t a cause for serious concern, but it can cause some pain and sensitivity. It is typically a symptom of a larger problem, so talk with your dentist to determine what caused the bump. In the meantime, use the following guide to help understand potential underlying problems.

Causes of Gum Bumps

1. Canker Sores

These small ulcers are some of the most common bumps found on the gums and throughout the mouth. They usually result from irritation, like poking the gums with a sharp object. They may be white or yellow, surrounded by a ring of red.

It may hurt to eat and drink, and gums can feel tender when you run your tongue over them. The sores heal on their own, but remove the source of irritation, if applicable. For example, if the irritation is from braces, your orthodontist can give you wax to place over the metal.

2. Abscesses

An abscess is usually soft, warm, and very painful. It feels like it’s throbbing, which can worsen when you lie down and may radiate out to the ears and neck. The gums around the bump may be red and swollen. This pocket filled with pus is a bacterial infection, and your dentist will need to drain it and remove the source of the infection. Treatment may require tooth extraction or a root canal.

3. Cysts

Cysts are small bumps filled with air or liquid that most commonly appear around buried or dead teeth. They form slowly over time and may only hurt slightly. They can put pressure on your teeth and weaken the bone around them, so your dentist should remove them.

4. Oral Cancer

These cancerous growths can appear anywhere inside the mouth, not just the gums. They may be red or white and feel like a persistent sore. You may also have a sore throat or hoarseness in your voice. Your dentist will look for these during every routine checkup, but if you notice one yourself, you should schedule an appointment immediately. A biopsy can determine if the growth is cancerous.

If you have any bumps on your gums, schedule an appointment to see Ronald W. Ristow, D.D.S., L.L.C., in Oconto Falls, WI. This trusted community dentist has over 15 years of experience caring for patients of all ages. The practice accepts many insurance types and offers payment plans to make your dental care affordable. Learn more online, and call (920) 846-3163 for an appointment. You can also text JOIN to (920) 249-5938 to opt into the text messaging list for news and updates.