What That Bump on Your Gum Could Be—and Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

Spotting a small bump on your gum can catch you off guard. Maybe it’s tender, maybe it isn’t—but either way, it’s a sign your body is responding to something. Even if it doesn’t hurt, that raised area shouldn’t be brushed off as nothing. Gums react when something beneath the surface needs attention.

It Might Be a Dental Abscess

One common cause of a gum bump is a dental abscess in Fort Lauderdale, FL, which forms when infection builds up at the root of a tooth or along the gumline. You might notice swelling, a pimple-like blister, or even some drainage. Infections like this often result from untreated decay or a deep crack that allows bacteria in. Left untreated, they can spread quickly, making early care essential.

Other Possibilities Include Cysts or Irritation

Not all bumps are infections. Sometimes a cyst can develop near an unerupted tooth, or a fibrous nodule can form from repeated irritation—like brushing too hard in one spot. These aren’t usually painful, but they still need monitoring. Your dentist can tell whether the tissue is harmless or if something deeper is at play.

When to Make the Call

If the bump lasts more than a few days, grows larger, feels painful, or starts draining, it’s time for a professional exam. Even painless lumps can indicate chronic infection or underlying damage that hasn’t made itself obvious yet.

Your mouth has ways of warning you when something’s wrong—even if it seems small. That bump on your gum might be easy to ignore, but your peace of mind and long-term oral health are worth the visit. Let your Fort Lauderdale, FL dentist take a look and clear up the mystery.