A bump on the gums is an abnormal localized swelling or growth that can appear unexpectedly. While finding an unusual lump can be alarming, most growths are not indicative of a serious condition. Characteristics like texture, color, and pain often provide the first clue to the bump’s origin. Any persistent or concerning gum bump should be evaluated by a dental professional for accurate identification and appropriate treatment.
Bumps Caused by Infection and Inflammation
The most concerning bumps are typically soft, red, and often painful, signaling an underlying bacterial infection. A dental abscess is a localized collection of pus resulting from an infection spread from a tooth or surrounding gum tissue. A periapical abscess forms at the root tip due to deep decay or trauma, while a periodontal abscess is a pocket of pus in the gum tissue associated with advanced gum disease.
An abscess that drains pus onto the gum surface is known as a gum boil, or parulis, often resembling a small pimple. While drainage may reduce pain, it does not resolve the underlying infection. Treatment involves addressing the source, often through drainage, root canal therapy for a periapical abscess, or deep cleaning for a periodontal abscess, followed by antibiotics.
A pyogenic granuloma is a reactive inflammatory lesion, appearing as a reddish, swollen mass that bleeds easily upon touch. This solid growth consists of an overgrowth of capillaries and connective tissue, often linked to minor trauma, chronic irritation, or hormonal shifts, such as those occurring during pregnancy. These growths may resolve spontaneously but often require surgical excision if they persist or interfere with oral function.
Firm and Bone-Related Growths
In contrast to the soft, red bumps of infection, some growths are firm, pale, and structurally related to the jawbone. Torus palatinus and torus mandibularis are common examples of these bony overgrowths. These slow-growing lumps are composed of dense cortical bone and are considered anatomical variations. Torus palatinus is located along the midline of the hard palate, while torus mandibularis appears on the tongue-side of the lower jaw.
These bony protrusions are generally painless, though the thin overlying gum tissue can sometimes become irritated by sharp foods. Treatment is typically not required unless the tori interfere with chewing, speech, or the fitting of dental appliances like dentures. An irritation fibroma is a mass of dense, scar-like connective tissue. Fibromas develop in response to chronic irritation, such as friction from a sharp tooth edge, ill-fitting dentures, or repeated cheek biting. These smooth, dome-shaped bumps are usually the same color as the surrounding gum tissue and are removed only if they become chronically irritated or bothersome.
Temporary Bumps from Injury or Irritation
Bumps that appear suddenly and resolve quickly are frequently the result of an external cause. Accidentally biting the gum tissue, scraping the area with a hard-bristled toothbrush, or a jab from sharp food can cause immediate swelling. These minor injuries lead to temporary inflammation that usually subsides within a few days as the tissue heals.
Aphthous ulcers, or canker sores, can also appear on the gums. These are small, round to oval lesions characterized by a white or yellowish center surrounded by a distinct red border. They are often painful, especially when eating or brushing, but are not contagious and typically heal on their own within one to two weeks. Orthodontic appliances and ill-fitting removable dentures can cause chronic irritation, leading to localized swelling or small, temporary bumps. Addressing the source of irritation is generally the only intervention needed for these self-limiting conditions.
Warning Signs and When to See a Dentist
While many gum bumps are benign, specific warning signs require professional evaluation. A bump that persists for longer than two weeks without showing signs of healing is a major concern. Any growth that exhibits a rapid change in size, shape, or color, or one that begins to bleed easily without provocation, should be examined immediately.
Systemic symptoms accompanying a gum bump strongly suggest a serious, spreading infection like an abscess. These include fever, severe facial swelling, or intense, throbbing pain. Other concerning signs are:
- Numbness or a tingling sensation in the jaw or tongue.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- A persistent sore throat.
A dental professional can perform a thorough examination, which may include X-rays to check the underlying bone and tooth roots. A biopsy may be used to definitively identify the nature of the growth, particularly if there is suspicion of a malignant condition like oral cancer.