What Is a Gum Boil? Causes, Treatments, and Risks
A small bump on the gums may not seem alarming at first, but it could signal a life-threatening condition brewing beneath the surface. So, what is a gum boil, and why is prompt treatment so important? This guide will help you understand what these bumps might tell you about your oral health.
What is a gum boil?
Gum boils are bumps or areas of localized swelling that develop on the gums in response to an abscess or infection within the gum tissue. Sometimes called a parulis, this is the drainage point for the pus accumulating below.
What are the symptoms of a gum boil?
The symptoms of a gum boil vary with severity and the source of the infection, but may include:
A swollen bump on the gums
White, yellow, or red pimple-like appearance
Pain or tenderness
Throbbing toothache or jaw pain
Bad breath
Bad taste in the mouth
Gum redness and swelling
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure
Loose tooth
Fever or facial swelling
Is a gum boil the same as a pimple?
A gum boil may look similar to a pimple, but they’re not the same thing. While a pimple is a reaction to a clogged pore, a gum boil is a sign of infection deep within the gum tissue.
Is a gum boil the same as an abscess?
Gum boils are technically part of an existing abscess, but the terms aren’t interchangeable. A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in response to a bacterial infection. As the infection grows, it spreads toward the surface where it forms a gum boil.
What causes gum boils?
Even with great dental hygiene practices like brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using fluoride mouthwash, it’s possible to develop a dental abscess. So, what causes these infections in the first place? There are a number of sources, including:
Periodontal disease
Advanced gum disease is a leading cause of gum boils. As plaque and tartar accumulate below the gumline, bacteria infect the tissues and bone around the affected tooth, eventually creating a periodontal abscess and, ultimately, sores along the outer gumline.
Untreated tooth decay
Bacteria can also enter deeper gum tissues through untreated cavities. When this occurs, the tooth pulp becomes infected, and pus may collect near the root tip, forming a periapical abscess. Pressure builds beneath the gumline, and a gum boil emerges.
Dental trauma or fractures
A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth is another direct route to the interior structures of your mouth. Even if the damage seems minor, an injury can expose the tooth pulp, damage nerve tissue, and lead to infection over time. In some cases, these effects aren’t apparent until months or years after the traumatic incident.
Failed endodontic treatment
Not all dental treatments go according to plan. If a root canal leaves a tiny bit of infected tissue behind, a crown becomes cracked, or new decay develops around a previously treated tooth, a new gum boil may appear.
Weakened immune system
Certain medical conditions inhibit the body’s healing mechanisms, making it harder to fight off harmful bacteria. Patients who suffer from chronic stress, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and cancer may be more prone to abscesses and gum boils. Be sure to share any diagnosis with your dentist, so they can modify treatment to your unique needs.
Related: How Long Does a Root Canal Last Without a Crown?
How are gum boils treated?
Home remedies, such as a daily saltwater rinse, hydrogen peroxide, and anti-inflammatory essential oils, may improve the symptoms of a gum boil, but addressing the underlying infection requires professional care from a dentist. Treatments may include:
Root canal
Periapical gum boils, or those within the tooth root, are often treated with a root canal. During the procedure, your provider will:
Remove the infected pulp and trapped food particles
Clean and disinfect the canal
Seal the inside of the tooth
Place a crown to protect against re-infection
Many patients notice their gum boil shrinking within 24 to 72 hours of their root canal, with full healing in one to two weeks.
Drainage
In cases of severe pus or pressure buildup, your dentist or endodontist may drain the boil to immediately alleviate swelling and discomfort. This involves making a small incision in the gum tissue, allowing the pus to escape, and then flushing the area with a cleansing solution before proceeding with additional treatment for the infection.
Antibiotics
Systemic antibiotics are often prescribed for infections that spread or cause more serious symptoms, such as facial swelling, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. However, prescription antibiotics are usually a complementary therapy alongside a root canal or other procedure to eliminate infected tissue.
Deep cleaning
Root scaling and planing may be needed for periodontal abscesses that occur when plaque and tartar accumulate below the gumline. Additionally, your dentist will clean the infected pocket and may smooth the tooth roots to prevent future accumulation and help the gums reattach to the tooth. Some severe cases call for multiple treatments.
Tooth extraction
Occasionally, a tooth is too damaged by decay to be saved. Extraction may be the best course of action when there is:
Severe decay
Extensive bone loss
A major fracture
Recurrent infection
Previous failed treatments
Once the tooth is removed, the infected tissue is cleaned out, and the tissue begins to heal. Your dentist will discuss your options for a replacement tooth, including implants, bridges, and partial dentures.
Keep your smile healthy by visiting Coral Reef Dental in Palm Harbor!
A dental abscess can be life-threatening if left untreated, but addressing the problem as soon as you notice a gum boil can minimize the risk of complications and help you maintain your sparkling smile. Reach out to Coral Reef Dental today to schedule an appointment!