I Have a Growth on My Gums: What Should I Do?

Noticing a growth on your gums can be concerning, but it’s important to remember that not all gum growths are serious. Some are harmless, while others may require treatment. In either case, your next step should be to schedule an exam with Dr. Jenny Herman — that’s the only way to know for sure what kind of growth you’re dealing with.

In the meantime, read on to learn more about growths on your gums and how our Baton Rouge Periodontics & Implants team can help you.

What causes gum growths?

Several conditions can cause a growth on your gums, including:

Fibromas 

Fibromas are noncancerous lumps that develop due to irritation or trauma, such as biting your cheek or wearing ill-fitting dental appliances. They can develop anywhere in your mouth, including your cheeks or gums.

Pyogenic granulomas 

These are red, swollen growths that often appear due to hormonal changes, pregnancy, or irritation. In this case, the bump you see is made up of abnormal blood vessels. Pyogenic granulomas can be pink, red, or brown, and they often have a white, scaly ring around them.

Periodontal abscess 

Untreated periodontal disease is the most common cause of periodontal abscesses. Because gum disease is so common — 42% of all adults over 30 have some form of gum disease — it’s likely that a sudden bump on your gums is related to gum disease. 

Abscesses are uncomfortable, pus-filled bumps caused by a bacterial infection. When they form on your gums, they’re called periodontal abscesses. 

An abscess may look like a pimple, but don’t pop it. Doing so can spread the infection and increase the risk of complications. Instead, Dr. Herman may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection, and if needed, lance the abscess so it can drain.

Oral cysts 

These are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the soft tissues of your mouth. They can develop as a result of minor trauma. Oral cysts affect 2.4 out of every 1000 people.

Oral cancer

Gum growths can sometimes indicate a more serious condition, such as oral cancer. Because oral cancer rates have increased 1% per year since the mid-2000s, it’s important to know the warning signs. In addition to bumps, oral cancer can also cause white or red patches, sores that don’t heal, tingling on your tongue, or difficulty swallowing.

What to do about the bump on your gums

While you wait for your exam (to confirm the type of bump you have), you can take a few steps at home to mitigate any discomfort. For example, you may consider swishing with salt water to help reduce discomfort and swelling. To make a salt water rinse, combine 1-2 teaspoons of salt with a cup of warm water. Swish a mouthful of salt water in your mouth and then spit it out. Don’t swallow the salt water rinse.

You can also try a topical oral analgesic, over-the-counter pain relief medication, or a cold compress to reduce swelling.

When to see a periodontist for a growth on your gums

While some gum growths are harmless, you should see Dr. Herman if you experience:

• Persistent or rapidly growing lumps
• Discomfort, tenderness, or bleeding
• Difficulty eating or speaking
• Changes in the color or texture of the growth
• A sore that doesn’t heal within two weeks

Even if you don’t have a bump on your gums, you should consider reaching out to Dr. Herman if you have other signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth.

What to expect during your exam

During your exam, Dr. Herman examines your gums, reviews your medical history, and may take X-rays or perform a biopsy to determine the cause of the growth. If necessary, treatment options may include:

• Removing the growth if it’s causing discomfort or interfering with oral function
• Antibiotics to treat infection, such as an abscess
• Procedural excision or laser treatment 
• Further testing if cancer is suspected

If your bump is related to periodontal disease, Dr. Herman doesn’t just treat the abscess. She may also recommend periodontal maintenance to target the root cause of your bump: periodontal disease.

If you have a growth on your gums, call us at 225-769-1444. You can also book an appointment through our online scheduling system.