If you have a bump on your gum, you may have what's called a fistula. A fistula is an abnormal pathway that can form under the gum line in the body's attempt to drain an infection. As the fistula fills up with pus, you can end up with a pimple-like sore on your gums. Read on to learn what causes this, why it needs to be treated, and how a dentist can help.

What Causes Gum Fistulas?

Fistulas can develop from all sorts of scenarios. You can develop a fistula from untreated plaque or gum disease. You can develop a fistula after oral trauma, surgery (like an extraction or root canal).

Whatever the scenario, fistulas are caused by an infection that is surrounded by white blood cells. As white blood cells travel to the area to treat the infection, the gum tissue can swell. When this swelling causes a lot of pressure on softer tissue walls, then a fistula can develop. When drainage canals near a tooth are blocked, a fistula can develop.

Is This a Serious Problem?

A fistula can be a sign of a more serious problem, like an abscess. While the fistula acts as a drain for pus, it also acts as an entryway for more bacteria to get into the infected area. Besides noticing a bump on your gums, fistulas can cause swollen lymph nodes, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, tooth pain, and fevers. You'll want to visit your dentist to make sure that the fistula isn't letting bacteria get into your bloodstream, as this could lead to sepsis.

How are Fistulas Treated?

Your dentist will take x-rays to get to the root of the problem. The treatment will depend on what caused the fistula in the first place. For instance, if you have an abscess, then your dentist will drain it and likely prescribe an antibiotic.

If the fistula is a side effect after surgery, then your dentist will likely want to monitor it and have you continue using an antibacterial rinse until the fistula closes.

If the fistula was caused by a decayed tooth, your dentist may need to drill a hole in the enamel to allow the infection to drain. In worse case scenarios, your dentist may have to extract the tooth entirely.

Ultimately, you need to visit your dentist to get treatment for an oral fistula. You can prevent fistulas from reforming by practicing good oral hygiene. This means visiting your dentist regularly and brushing and flossing regularly. Reach out to a dentist, like John B Webster DDS,  in your area today for more details.