Q: What are gumboils?
A: Gumboils are painful, pimple-like swellings that can erupt on your gums, usually as a result of decay or an abscess(an infection). The gumboil is full of pus that has worked its way to the surface of the gum. You can rinse your mouth with warm salt water to relieve irritation and to bring the boil to a head. Once it comes to a head it may burst on its own and release its contents. Because a gumboil is usually a symptom of a serious infection or gum disease, the appearance of one should be reason to call your dentist promptly for an appointment.
Decay generally begins with a small spot of demineralized enamel on the tooth surface, usually hidden from sight in an individual tooth fissure or between teeth. This is why brushing, which is effective at getting into fissures, and flossing, which is the best way to get between teeth, are so important to good oral health. An abscess is an infection around the root of a tooth in the gum or the jawbone. Pus begins to collect as a result of the infection and a painful lump develops. So if you develop a gumboil or any other painful lump in your jaw, see your dentist immediately.
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