White spot on the gums: Causes and treatments

Often referred to as a “ tooth boil ,” a white spot or whitehead on the gum line is actually an abscess . It is generally caused by a periodontal infection due to bacteria present in the gums. Over time, this abscess enlarges and appears in the form of a visible pimple on the gums. Several conditions can cause the appearance of such a pimple:

• Gum abscess : This is one of the most common causes. It is a collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection of the gums. It can result from an injury, an underlying infection, or sometimes advanced gum disease. Common symptoms include a painful white bump, red, swollen gums , and sometimes bad breath .
  
• Periapical abscess: This occurs when there is an infection at the root of a tooth, usually due to deep tooth decay or dental trauma. If it ruptures, it can form a fistula or channel that allows pus to escape, giving the appearance of a white bump on the gum.
  
• Gingival cysts: These are saccular, fluid-filled formations that can appear on the gum line. They are usually not painful and may result from blocked salivary ducts.

A dental abscess generally manifests itself with several symptoms . Here they are :

1. Severe, persistent pain : This pain may be throbbing or throbbing, often described as a sharp pain. It can be made worse by chewing or pressing on the affected area.
2. Tooth sensitivity : Increased sensitivity to hot, cold , sugar or pressure. This may manifest as sharp pain when consuming hot or cold foods or drinks.
3. Swelling and redness : The gum surrounding the infected tooth may be swollen, red and painful to the touch.
4. Bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth : This is due to the presence of pus and possible necrosis of infected tissues.
5. Fever : A high temperature may indicate that the infection has spread or that the body is actively fighting the infection.
6. Swollen lymph nodes : The nodes under the jaw or in the neck may be swollen and tender due to the infection.
7. Difficulty opening your mouth : In some cases, swelling and pain can make it difficult to open your mouth.
8. Feeling generally unwell : As with many infections, one may feel a general feeling of malaise, tiredness or weakness.
9. Pus discharge : In some cases, pus may leak from a drainage point on the gum (fistula), leaving a salty or unpleasant taste in the mouth.
   

Several factors can contribute to the appearance of a dental abscess:

1. Dental caries : Untreated cavities can progress and reach the dental pulp (the center of the tooth containing the nerves and blood vessels). When these bacteria reach the pulp, it can cause an infection which, if left untreated, can develop into an abscess.
2. Dental trauma : A broken, chipped tooth or similar trauma can expose the dental pulp to bacteria
3. Gum disease (periodontitis) : Inflammation and infection of the gums can cause pockets to form between the teeth and gums. These pockets can be places where bacteria accumulates and causes an infection which can eventually lead to an abscess.
4. Dental Surgery : Although rare, an infection can sometimes develop after dental procedures, especially if the operated site is not properly cleaned or if recommended aftercare is not followed.
5. Pre-existing infection : An infection that starts in one part of the mouth can spread to a tooth or nearby tissues.
6. Blocked salivary ducts : Sometimes the ducts that carry saliva can become blocked, creating a favorable environment for bacterial growth.
   

It is important to note that it will not disappear on its own. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential to receive the appropriate treatment and to avoid possible complications. Once treated, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to preventing recurrence and other dental problems.

When it comes to a dental abscess, the first step in treatment is to eliminate the infection and prevent its spread. Drainage of the abscess is often necessary. To do this, the dentist may make a small incision to allow the pus to drain , or they may perform a root canal if the infection is coming from the dental pulp . Root canal treatment involves removing the infected dental pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, then filling and sealing it.

In cases where the tooth is severely damaged and cannot be saved, it may need to be extracted . After extraction, the pus from the abscess can be drained to ensure that all infection has been removed.

Antibiotics are also commonly prescribed to help fight infection. It is crucial to follow the dentist's instructions and take the full course of antibiotics prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated.

The pain and discomfort associated with the abscess can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers , but it is essential to consult a dentist or pharmacist before taking them, as some medications may interact with the antibiotics or other prescribed medications.

Anticipating or preventing the appearance of an abscess is essential to avoid associated complications. Here are some general steps to take to reduce the risk of developing them:

• Regular brushing is the first line of defense against cavities and gum disease. There are particular benefits to using a sonic electric toothbrush . These brushes, thanks to their sonic vibrations , are able to clean teeth more thoroughly and remove more plaque compared to traditional manual toothbrushes . Additionally, they reach hard-to-reach areas and often ensure more uniform brushing, reducing the risk of plaque and tartar buildup. Regular flossing is also crucial. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between teeth, areas that a toothbrush cannot always reach effectively, electric or not.
  
• Finally, it is essential to visit a dentist regularly, at least once a year, for a professional examination and cleaning. These visits help identify and treat potential problems before they become serious, such as cavities which, if ignored, can lead to infections and eventually abscesses. It should also be noted that oral hygiene is not limited to these practices. Using an antiseptic mouthwash , choosing a healthy diet, reducing sugar consumption and stopping smoking are all other measures that can help prevent dental problems and therefore abscesses. .