Persistent Gum Bump After Dental Cleaning: Causes and Concerns

Two months ago, I had a dental cleaning, and two days later, a bump appeared on my gums?

Hello, two months ago I had a dental cleaning, and there was a piece of gum tissue that was originally a dark coffee color.
I didn't think much of it, but two days later it seemed to become inflamed and developed a bump.
I squeezed it while brushing my teeth, and only a little blood came out.
I thought it was just inflammation and that it would go away in a few days.
However, the bump is still there now, and when I press it with a tissue, it only bleeds a little.
The bleeding area is a normal flesh color.
What could be the reason for this? I hope it's not something like oral cancer.
I've searched online and found a lot of information, and I'm quite worried...
I neglected to pay attention to it, and now two months have passed, and I feel like something is wrong since it hasn't healed.
I notice that I bleed almost every time I brush my teeth.
Could it be that I'm not brushing correctly, and with my smoking habit, this bump hasn't gone away? I'm a bit concerned.

Ling Fei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/11/04

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Miss Lingfei,
Two months ago, you had a dental cleaning, and two days later, a growth appeared on your gums.
Generally, if there is an abnormal growth in the oral cavity, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid any delay in treatment.

Take care! Wishing you all the best and a smooth recovery!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2019/11/04

More Info

Persistent gum bumps after dental cleaning can be concerning, especially when they do not resolve over time. Based on your description, it seems that you developed a bump on your gum tissue shortly after your dental cleaning, which has persisted for two months. This situation can arise from several factors, and understanding these can help you determine the best course of action.

Firstly, the bump you are experiencing could be a result of inflammation or infection in the gum tissue, possibly due to the dental cleaning itself. During a cleaning, the dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, which can sometimes irritate the gum tissue, especially if there was pre-existing inflammation. If the cleaning was thorough and you had underlying gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), this could lead to localized inflammation, resulting in a gum bump.

Another possibility is that the bump is a periodontal abscess, which is a localized infection that can occur in the gum tissue. This can happen if bacteria invade the gum tissue, often due to poor oral hygiene or existing gum disease. The presence of blood when you press on the bump suggests that there may be some degree of inflammation or infection present.

It's also important to consider your oral hygiene practices. You mentioned that you experience bleeding when brushing your teeth, which is often a sign of gum disease. If you are not brushing effectively or using a technique that is too aggressive, this could exacerbate gum issues. Smoking can also contribute to gum problems, as it impairs blood flow to the gums and can hinder healing.

While it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of something more serious, such as oral cancer, the characteristics you described (a localized bump that bleeds slightly) are more indicative of a gum-related issue rather than cancer. However, any persistent lesion or bump in the mouth that does not heal should be evaluated by a dental professional.

Given that the bump has not resolved after two months, it is advisable to seek a dental evaluation. A dentist can perform a thorough examination, possibly including X-rays, to determine the underlying cause of the bump. They may also take a sample of the tissue if there is any concern about it being something more serious.

In the meantime, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques to avoid further irritation. Flossing daily is also essential to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and below the gum line. If you are not already doing so, consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria in your mouth.

In summary, while the persistent gum bump you are experiencing is likely related to inflammation or infection, it is essential to have it evaluated by a dental professional to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate treatment. Taking care of your oral hygiene and addressing any underlying issues will be crucial in promoting healing and preventing further complications.

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