A gum boil, medically referred to as a dental or gingival abscess, is a swollen, pus-filled bump that forms on the gums. This signals an underlying bacterial infection within the gum tissue or around a tooth. Recognizing a gum boil indicates a need for professional dental attention to address the infection.
Visual Description
A gum boil appears as a small, pimple-like bump on the gum tissue. It can be dome-shaped or round, often presenting with a red, white, or yellow coloration. White or yellow usually indicates pus beneath the surface.
The texture of a gum boil is soft and tender, and it can be located anywhere on the gums, often near the gum line or a tooth root. As the infection progresses, the appearance may change from an initial red swelling to a more defined pus-filled head.
Associated Symptoms
A gum boil is often accompanied by other symptoms. Localized pain is common, which can range from a dull ache to a throbbing or sharp sensation. This discomfort might be felt directly in the affected gum area or spread to the jaw, neck, or ear.
Swelling beyond the immediate boil can occur in the surrounding gum tissue, and sometimes even extend to the face or jaw. Tenderness, a persistent bad taste in the mouth, or a foul odor are common. Discharge of pus or blood from the boil may be observed. Systemic symptoms like fever or general unwellness may indicate a widespread infection.
Underlying Causes
Gum boils form from bacterial infections from either a dental abscess or periodontal disease. In a dental abscess, bacteria invade the inner part of a tooth, often through deep decay, a crack, or trauma, leading to an infection that spreads to the tooth root and surrounding bone. This infection can create a channel through the bone and gum, forming a boil as a drainage point for pus.
Periodontal disease, an infection of the gums, can also lead to gum boils, specifically called periodontal abscesses. This occurs when bacteria accumulate in deep pockets between the teeth and gums, causing inflammation and pus within the gum tissue. Poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugar, and compromised immune systems can contribute to the development of these infections.
Seeking Professional Care
A gum boil signifies an active infection requiring professional diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring a gum boil can lead to serious consequences, as infection may spread. Untreated infections can result in bone loss, damage to surrounding teeth, or even tooth loss.
In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, or life-threatening conditions like sepsis or meningitis. A dentist will examine the area, diagnose the cause, and may perform procedures like draining the abscess, prescribing antibiotics, or deeper treatments like a root canal or tooth extraction to eliminate the source of the infection.