Have you ever felt a mysterious bump on your gums or cheeks? Did they hurt or swell up? Many patients experience these oral annoyances, but most have no idea what they mean. Some of these oral bumps can be harmless, but others could be dangerous if left untreated for too long. Your dentist will be able to tell which are which, but knowing when to go see them can be tricky.
If you want to learn about four common causes for oral bumps and what to do about them, continue reading.
Common Causes of Oral Bumps
Here are some of the most common bumps you may find hanging out on your gums, lips, or cheeks:
Canker Sores
These small, painful sores can develop on the gums and are often accompanied by a white or grayish base. Canker sores are generally harmless and tend to heal on their own within a week or two.
Dental Cysts
Dental cysts are often harmless bumps full of air or fluid that form on your gums or cheeks. Cysts can form for many reasons including material from dead or impacted teeth and oral injuries. Though they may not be painful or harmful at first, it’s best to treat them early before they get worse.
Dental Abscess
Untreated cysts and bacterial infections from decayed teeth or gum disease eventually become dental abscesses. These are pus-filled bumps that often appear on gums near decayed teeth and can cause throbbing and pain. If left untreated, a dental abscess can swell and run the risk of shocking your system with bacteria if it bursts. This could make you very sick or even be life-threatening.
Fibroma
Fibroma is one of the most common forms of oral bumps. These appear as hard, smooth lumps on the surface of your gums and are often accompanied by pain and discoloration. Constantly wearing oral appliances, clear aligners, or mouthguards increases your risk for fibroma.
Oral Cancer
Cancer happens when cells rapidly mutate in an area of your body. Oral cancer can occur on the gums, cheeks, tongue, or throat forming tumors that become life-threatening if not removed quickly. Regular dental screenings will catch signs of oral cancer early, giving you the best chance at success with treatment.
What Can Be Done About Oral Bumps?
Here are some preventive measures you can use to help prevent hazardous oral bumps:
- Regular Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause gum problems.
- Routine Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups to catch and address potential issues early.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Avoid tobacco use, limit alcohol, and keep a well-balanced diet for overall oral health.
While discovering a bump on your gums can be worrying, many cases are minor and resolve on their own. However, if you do discover one of these oral bumps, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Reach out to your dentist if you ever feel worried about your oral health. They can treat you and ensure your smile stays healthy and happy.
About the Practice
At Sweet Smiles Dental Design, their team of talented and professional dentists has been saving smiles for over 15 years. They use ultramodern dental technology to provide treatments that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. If you have mysterious oral bumps of your own, let the experts take a look. Call (303) 688-9519 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to browse other services they offer.