Pimples on the Gum: How to Treat Them?

The appearance of a pimple on the gum can signal an oral infection that must be treated without delay. Caused by bacteria, this phenomenon can take various forms and, in most cases, corresponds to the formation of an abscess that may settle on the gum itself, near the root, or between the tooth and the gum. Several factors can be at the origin of this condition. As soon as the first symptoms appear, it is important to make an appointment with your dentist to receive appropriate treatment.

Types of oral infections

Sometimes referred to as a "gum boil", a pimple on the gum actually corresponds to an abscess. Its origin often lies in a periodontal infection caused by bacteria at the gum line. Over time, the abscess develops and becomes visible as a pimple that surfaces on the gum. It may take on a white or reddish hue. This type of pimple is generally quite painful. A fistula — an opening that forms on the surface of the abscess — is frequently observed; the pus that gradually drains out helps reduce the intensity of the pain felt.

Two main types of abscess should be distinguished here.

The periodontal abscess results primarily from an infection of the gum. It is frequently encountered in people with gingivitis or gum recession, and may also form following a tooth extraction. The second type of abscess — even more common — is the apical abscess. This one is caused by a cavity whose progression eventually reaches the nerves of the tooth. A fractured tooth, sometimes broken for years, can also be the source.

A dental abscess must be treated without delay. It should not be confused with the simple canker sore, very common and benign. This small ulceration can appear in many places in the mouth; harmless, it is easily treated with an antiseptic gel. Oral herpes can also present symptoms close to those of an abscess: a consultation is then in order. Finally, oral thrush (candidiasis) can also cause the appearance of pimples inside the mouth. An unbalanced diet, a weakened immune system or antibiotic treatment are most often the cause.

The main symptoms

A dental abscess can be visually identified by the presence of one or more pimples on the gum. This is not, however, the only symptom that allows the infection to be recognised: other warning signs deserve to be taken into account. Among them, the most obvious remains pain felt at the level of a tooth, especially when chewing. It is not uncommon for this pain to radiate and end up affecting the entire jaw. Increased sensitivity to hot and cold is another signal that should not be neglected. By running your tongue over the affected area, you may also feel quite distinct swelling. If you find it difficult to swallow, the infection has probably progressed and reached the lymph nodes.

Other, more diffuse manifestations can also signal a dental abscess. Not very revealing on their own, they become serious indicators when combined with the previous symptoms. These include bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth, both stemming from the discharge of pus at the level of the abscess. Headaches, fever and difficulty sleeping are also to be feared in people whose dental abscess is not treated. More rarely, a white pimple appears on the gum without causing any pain. In every case, a pimple on the gum is a symptom to be taken seriously, which justifies making an appointment with your dentist.

Appropriate treatments

A gingival or dental abscess may stem from very varied causes: periodontitis, infection affecting a tooth, deep cavity, broken tooth (sometimes for a long time) or even difficult healing after an intervention — particularly with wisdom teeth. Depending on its origin, location and stage of progression, the management of an abscess differs significantly.

If the gum is affected, your dentist in Cannes will proceed with drainage and curettage of the abscess before treating the periodontal disease itself. If it is the tooth that is infected, it will need to be opened to perform the necessary care. This is known as endodontic treatment, with a complete cleaning of the canal containing nerves and blood vessels. An aggravated abscess will require extraction of the tooth, then its replacement by an implant. In every case, an abscess at the origin of a pimple on the gum must be treated quickly.