White Lumps on Gums: Causes, Risks, and When to See a Dentist

What Are White Spots on Gums?

Healthy gums fit snugly around the teeth, looking pink and firm. These do not bleed on brushing and are neither swollen nor tender. While a few candidates complain of white swelling on gums, it could signal a more serious underlying issue. Nearly 58,500 Americans are diagnosed with oral and oropharyngeal cancer worldwide.^[1] Not all white lumps on gums in mouth, are a cause for concern. However, some serious conditions can begin this way. The early signs of oral cancer often appear as small, painless white patches. In other cases, what appears to be a harmless spot may actually be the first sign of an infected tooth, which, if left untreated, can develop into a painful, spreading abscess. Ignoring early signs and changes in your gums that persist for more than a few days is not advisable. These signs can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from simple infections to pre-cancerous conditions.   

Are White Spots on Gums Normal?

Not all white bump on gumline are normal. Their severity depends on the underlying cause. While a few painful white spots are due to less serious canker sores, some painless hard bumps can be pre-cancerous sores. It's essential to understand the potential causes before taking action. 

Why Is There White Bumps on My Gums?

The white lumps on gums in mouth are of different kinds, varying with the underlying cause. Below, we list the most common causes leading to the formation of white bumps gums. 

• Oral thrush: Oral thrush appears as white creamy patches or lesions spread over the mouth, cheeks, gums, tongue, and inner cheeks. These sore white bumps on gums, may sometimes bleed when disturbed. This condition is also known as oral candidiasis, is caused by Candida albicans overgrowth. This fungal microbe exists naturally within the oral cavity alongside other microbial species. However, its number sometimes increases considerably, causing infection due to a compromised immune system. 
• Dental abscess: Tooth abscesses appear as tiny white spots on gums that hurt and are a result of the localized dental cavities. In some patients, oral bacteria enter the tooth, infecting its pulp and causing it to swell, forming pimple-like bumps. This causes inflammation, leading to pus accumulation that shows up as white painful lumps on gums. These form either at the root tip or in the gums surrounding the tooth.  
• Luekoplakia: This condition is the thickening of the oral mucosa. These begin as tiny white patches and occur when the cells in the mouth multiply excessively due to irritation or injury. Over time, these keratinize and form hard white lumps on gums. These lesions are pre-cancerous and dentists consider them benign oral cancer white spots on gums.  The condition is more common in persons who smoke and consume tobacco and is not contagious.^[2] 
• Dental cysts: These appear as small, white bump on gums in mouth, typically containing semi-solid material. Dental cysts form due to various reasons, among which the accumulation of tissue remnants related to tooth formation is the most common one. These cannot be confused with abscesses, which are solely collections of pus. These appear as dark, rounded bumps on X-rays, and sometimes, go painless.  
• Oral lichen planus: It is a chronic auto-inflammatory condition characterized by white, lacy, raised patches on the mucous membranes within the mouth.^[3] The body’s immune system attacks the oral mucosal cells, forming the painful white bump on gums. These turn out to be even more painful, red, and often show ulcerated lesions. Note that they are typically not contagious.  
• Oral fibromas: These are a result of trauma or irritation to the soft gum tissue, often caused by ill-fitting dentures or habits such as biting. These are generally the same colored as the surrounding tissue. However, due to excessive irritation, they may appear as white spot on gums painless, yet causing discomfort. 
• Canker sores: These are the yellowish or white lumps with a red border, usually formed on the gums, inside surfaces of the lips, and cheeks. These occur either due to food sensitivities, mouth injuries, or vitamin and mineral deficiencies. While these are typically smaller, rounded, or oval-shaped, they can cause tingling and painful sensations, resulting in immense discomfort.     

Knowing the serious causes of white bumps on gums, here is another common routine activity that is considered a possible cause. White spots on gums after brushing teeth, can be a result of overbrushing. Using hard-bristled brushes and aggressively brushing may irritate the soft gums. Although this is a temporary measure, you can rely on soft-bristled brushes and mild, non-abrasive toothpastes.

White Spots on Gums After Dental Work

In addition to symptomatic or problematic conditions, a recent dental procedure can also cause white bumps to form on the gums. Below, we detail them briefly. 

• White spots on gums after extraction are quite normal. These appear as part of the healing process, where a tiny, new tissue composed of blood vessels, white blood cells, and collagen forms. This temporary tissue forms within the empty tooth socket to protect the empty bone and to promote the formation of new tissues. This white substance near the gums typically disappears over time as new bone and gum tissue form. However, watch for symptoms such as pain, increased swelling, or the formation of pus. These are signs of delayed healing or something not going right!
• White spots on gums after whitening are a sign of mild gum irritation caused by the chemical action of the whitening agent. Improperly covering the gums during a teeth whitening procedure is the most common cause for this. Teeth whiteners containing hydrogen peroxide can be harsh on soft gum tissues, causing chemical burns. This typically heals off as the burnt tissue peels off and a new tissue forms beneath.
• White spots on gums after root canal are a part of the normal healing process. Formation of granulomatous tissue after root canal treatment over the incision is not a serious concern. However, watch out for symptoms of intense pain, swelling, and pus formation over a prolonged period. Do not overlook these tiny white pimple on gums, as they may lead to serious consequences.  

What Is the White Lump on Newborn Gums?

The white spots on gums infants are called Epstein pearls or Bohn’s nodules. Epstein pearls are the remnants of trapped epithelial tissue during fetal development. On the other hand, Bohn’s nodules are formed from the leftover salivary gland tissues. These are typically harmless and disappear within a few weeks or months after birth.^[4] In some children over 6 months, it could be an indication of oral thrush. These white lumps on gums baby are probably a result of their weak immune system, which is still developing. 

Location Matters: Understanding White Bumps on Gums Under Teeth and White Spots on Gums Above Teeth

The location of white bumps on the gums truly matters when it comes to understanding their cause and severity. Generally, the white spots on gums under teeth are due to gum irritation caused by excessive brushing, tooth abscesses, canker sores, fibroma, and oral cysts. These happen near the gumline, where the teeth are held securely by the pink, soft gum tissue. On the other hand, the white spots on gums above teeth, are of a different origin. They are either dental plaques, oral lichen planus, or leukoplakia. These are signs of infection, irritation, or a more serious condition.  

Do White Spots on My Gums Go Away on Their Own, or Do They Need Professional Care?

The white spots on gums from brushing too hard or following a dental procedure, such as root canals or tooth extractions, typically disappear on their own. The ulcerative, bump-like symptoms subside over time. However, a few are associated with pain, having a greasy appearance, or a patchy and lace-like appearance requires expert attention. Symptoms of pain, bleeding, loose teeth, changes in taste, and difficulty swallowing should not be ignored. Don’t hesitate to see your dentist in case you notice any of these signs. 

White Bump on Gums: How Do Dentists Identify Serious Cases?

Your dentist will check and evaluate your condition based on the existing symptoms. A trained professional can easily differentiate between a serious and a less serious cause of white lumps on gums. They conduct a physical examination and study the visual appearance (shape, color, texture, and size), its location, and other associated symptoms. They use X-rays to determine the extent of the infection and any associated loss of the jawbone. Additionally, they also look for other infectious symptoms, such as fever, and conduct blood tests. Suppose the lumps are hard and bony, they collect the tissue sample and send it for biopsy tests. This will help them diagnose the pre-cancerous and cancerous cells.

White Spots on Gums Treatment

The treatment for white spots on gums varies depending on the underlying cause. Here, we elaborate on this in detail based on the cause.

• Oral thrush is typically treated using antifungal medications, such as Nystatin, Clotrimazole, Fluconazole, Itraconazole, and Posaconazole, which are available as liquids and lozenges. Additionally, prioritizing oral hygiene and maintaining a healthy balance of good and bad microbes is necessary. 
• Many find relief from pain due to canker sores by using over-the-counter painkillers. Rinsing the oral cavity with mouthwashes and using topical applications, such as gels and creams containing local anaesthetics and anti-inflammatory medications, also offers relief. 
• The treatment for oral fibroma and leukoplakia follows the same approach. Healthcare professionals remove the lesions, either surgically or using lasers. Some of them also use heated needles through electrocauterization to remove the patches. Additionally, it's essential to avoid your consumption of tobacco and alcohol and prioritize good oral hygiene. 
• Eliminating the infection and draining the tooth abscess are effective treatment approaches for abscess. Along with appropriate oral antibiotics, a severe tooth infection requires root canal therapy. Tooth extraction is performed, in rare cases, when the tooth can’t be saved. 
• The more serious dental cysts are surgically removed, while those that can be drained are simply drained through an incision. The edges are stitched back to close the incision, and patients will heal in a few days. 
• While there is no cure to oral lichen planus, healthcare professionals focus more on managing the symptoms. Corticosteroids, either as topical applications or systemic medications, are generally prescribed, along with immunosuppressants. Some doctors recommend low-level laser therapy and phototherapy treatments. However, it's common to expect minimal side effects through this approach. 

Can You Treat White Lumps on Gums at Home?

The white lumps on gums definitely need professional dental care. A few home remedies can only alleviate the symptoms. While this applies only to harmless white gum bumps, you will need a qualified healthcare professional for effective treatment. They will evaluate the underlying cause and then implement an effective treatment approach. While you wait for the appointment, follow these steps. 

• Rinse your mouth with a solution of table salt dissolved in warm water several times a day. This will reduce inflammation and bacterial load.
• Maintain a healthy oral cavity by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly to support balanced oral microbes. 
• Use painkillers and local anesthetic creams for a soothing effect. 
• A cold compress on the outer side of the cheek also helps alleviate pain and discomfort.
• Avoid tobacco, whether in chewable form or as cigarettes, as it increases the risk of gum disease, oral infections, and even oral cancer. 

Final Word!

While a white lump on gums can sometimes be harmless, it's important not to make assumptions. A proper diagnosis is the only way to rule out serious conditions and begin the right treatment. When in doubt, consult your dentist. Your oral health depends on it.

Taking action early not only brings peace of mind, but it could prevent a minor issue from becoming a major concern. Don’t wait for discomfort to make a decision for you. Let a professional put your worries to rest.

Need help finding trusted dental care without the long waits or high costs? Sign up with Envoy Health and get expert support every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment abroad. Your healthier smile starts here!

References 

1. Rates of occurrence in the United States
2. Oral Leukoplakia
3. Oral Lichen Planus
4. Palatal and Gingival Cysts of the Newborn