A gumboil, also known as a dental abscess, is a swollen, pus-filled bump on the gums. It signals an underlying bacterial infection within the mouth, requiring attention for oral health and to prevent complications.
Understanding a Gumboil
A gumboil is a localized collection of pus that develops within the soft tissues of the gum, appearing as a small, pimple-like bump. These bumps often appear red and swollen, indicating inflammation and infection. While they can form anywhere along the gumline, gumboils are frequently found near the root of a tooth.
Gumboils are a type of dental abscess, categorized by location. A periapical abscess forms at the tip of a tooth’s root, often from an infection inside the tooth. A periodontal abscess develops in the gum tissue surrounding a tooth, while a gingival abscess is confined to the gum tissue itself, not involving the tooth or its supporting structures directly.
Common Causes and Associated Symptoms
Poor oral hygiene is a frequent contributor to gumboils, allowing plaque and food particles to accumulate and create an environment where bacteria thrive. Untreated tooth decay, which creates openings for bacteria to invade the tooth’s inner pulp, is another common cause. Gum disease, or periodontitis, can also lead to gumboils by forming pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria can collect and cause infection.
Dental trauma, such as a chipped or cracked tooth, can create entry points for bacteria, leading to an infection. An impacted tooth, particularly a wisdom tooth that hasn’t fully erupted, can also trap bacteria and contribute to abscess formation. Symptoms accompanying a gumboil include persistent pain that can be throbbing or sharp, often intensifying when chewing or applying pressure. Other signs include localized swelling and tenderness, bad breath or a foul taste, and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. In severe cases, a person might develop a fever, swollen lymph nodes, an earache, or difficulty opening their mouth or swallowing.
Treatment Approaches and When to Seek Professional Care
While some at-home measures can offer temporary relief, they do not address the underlying infection. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and cleanse the area. Diluted hydrogen peroxide rinses may also provide some benefit due to their antibacterial properties. However, do not attempt to pop or drain a gumboil yourself, as this can spread the infection and lead to more serious complications.
Professional dental treatment is necessary, as a gumboil indicates a bacterial infection that will not resolve on its own. Delaying treatment allows the infection to spread, potentially leading to tooth loss, bone erosion, or systemic infections. A dentist will diagnose the cause, often draining the abscess to release pus and alleviate pain. Antibiotics are frequently prescribed to eliminate the bacterial infection, especially if it shows signs of spreading.
Depending on the underlying cause, further procedures may be required. If gum disease is a contributing factor, a deep cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, can remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline. For infections originating from within the tooth, such as a periapical abscess, root canal therapy is often performed to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth. If the tooth is severely damaged or the infection is extensive, extraction might be necessary. Seek immediate dental attention if experiencing severe or persistent pain, significant swelling of the face or jaw, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing, as these can indicate a rapidly spreading infection.