July 17, 2025
It is a wise practice to pay attention to your mouth and any changes that occur in your oral tissues. From time to time, you might experience unusual symptoms. For example, you could develop a bump on your gums! This issue might signal a dental emergency, or it could be relatively harmless. In this blog post, you will learn about some possible explanations for that bump.
Abscess
An abscess is a pocket of pus that develops as a result of a bacterial infection. If you notice a swollen, painful bump on your gums, especially one that feels warm or looks red, you may be dealing with an abscess. An abscess is a dental emergency that requires prompt professional treatment to prevent the infection from spreading and causing systemic illness and wide-ranging tissue damage.
Canker Sore
A canker sore is a small, round lesion that can appear on your gums or the inside of your mouth. These sores tend to look white or yellow with a red border. You may feel a mild to moderate stinging or burning sensation when eating or brushing your teeth. Canker sores are not contagious and usually resolve on their own within one to two weeks. However, you may choose to seek treatment for persistent or recurring canker sores.
Cyst
A cyst is a sac filled with fluid or semi-solid material that can form on your gums or around the roots of your teeth. Cysts tend to grow slowly and may not cause pain at first. Over time, you may notice a painless swelling or a firm bump on your gums. If the cyst becomes infected, it can become painful and swollen. Left untreated, cysts might damage nearby teeth or bone, so it is important to seek professional dental advice if you suspect a cyst.
Oral Cancer
While rare, a persistent bump on your gums could be a sign of oral cancer. Oral cancer may appear as a lump, ulcer, or thickened area that does not heal or go away. You might also notice changes in color, unusual bleeding, or numbness in your mouth. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, so any suspicious or persistent changes in your mouth should be evaluated by a dental professional.
Fibroma
A fibroma is a benign, non-cancerous growth that commonly develops as a response to chronic irritation, such as rubbing from a dental appliance or repeated biting of the same spot. Fibromas often appear as firm, smooth, pink bumps on the gums. They do not usually cause pain. Your dentist may recommend removal if the growth becomes bothersome or interferes with oral function.
Mandibular Torus
A mandibular torus is a bony growth that can appear on the inside of your lower jaw, near your tongue. This condition is not dangerous and usually does not require treatment unless the bump interferes with eating, speaking, or the fit of your dentures.
Pyogenic Granuloma
A pyogenic granuloma is a small, reddish bump that bleeds easily and often appears after minor trauma or irritation to the gums. These growths are benign but can grow rapidly and may cause concern due to their appearance and tendency to bleed. Your dentist can advise you on the best course of action, which may include removal if the bump does not resolve on its own.
Any new or unusual bump on your gums deserves attention. If you have concerns about any new growths in your mouth, do not hesitate to reach out to your dentist for advice!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Yazan Sadeddin is a highly skilled dentist committed to providing top-quality care for The Woodlands. He and our team make efforts to see emergency cases as soon as possible. If you have a bump on your gums or other oral health concerns, we are ready to assist you! Contact our office at 281-820-6412.