You likely run your tongue across your teeth and gums every day or so, becoming intimately aware of how they feel. Maybe you were scanning around and came across a bump on the soft pink tissues of your mouth. You may wonder what it is, but there are several possible culprits. Some are minor while others need urgent oral care. Here are four common reasons and which ones to call your dentist for.
1.) Oral Fibromas
An oral fibroma manifests as a hard and smooth bump that’s painless. It generally forms on injured or irritated gum tissue. While it’s technically a tumor, it is noncancerous, so you don’t have to worry about it too much. However, this condition can’t go away on its own, so you can have it removed if it’s uncomfortable and bothering you.
2.) Canker Sores
A bit more unpleasant than the option above, a canker sore is a small white bump with a raised red border. It can show up on the pink soft tissues of your mouth, including your inner cheek, tongue, and lips. It is often painful, but it’s also harmless. Thankfully, it should heal on its own after a couple of weeks.
3.) Dental Abscess
If you have a tooth infection, then it can cause a condition known as a dental abscess. This is a pimple-like spot that’s near the affected dental structure. Along with the bump, you may experience severe discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity. You should call your dentist right away if you suspect this is the culprit. This is a dental emergency as the infection can spread when left untreated, eventually leading to tooth loss.
4.) Oral Cancer
Possibly one of the scarier-sounding reasons is oral cancer. It’s a rare condition, but it can happen to anyone. It often manifests as a red or white bump that’s a bit painful. These symptoms generally persist for two weeks or longer. However, it’s different for everyone, so some may have discomfort in their jaw or tongue while others may have trouble chewing and swallowing.
The good news is your dentist is here to help you out, regardless of the reason for your gum bump. Through state-of-the-art technology, they can figure out what the issue is, whether that’s with oral cancer screenings or X-rays to see the extent of an infection. By having them take a look, you can rest easy knowing you are getting the care you deserve.
About the Practice
At Hill Dental Wellness, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Kelsey Hill and Dr. Kenneth Myers. We are here to help the Falmouth community throughout their oral healthcare journey, especially during dental emergencies. By offering same-day urgent visits, you can get relief from your dental issue as soon as possible. If you want to get your gum bump looked at, schedule an appointment or call our office at (207) 797-3130.