Bone Spur in Gum: Understanding, Treatment, and Home Remedies
Dr. Sangeetha Varadharajan
B.D.S Dental Professional
Experiencing discomfort from a hard, bony lump on your gum can be concerning. This condition, often referred to as a bone spur in gum, can arise from various dental situations. In this blog, we’ll explore what bone spurs in the gums are, their causes, symptoms, treatment options, and home remedies to alleviate discomfort.
Table of Contents
What is a Bone Spur in Gum?
A bone spur in gum, also known as a bone spicule or dental bone spur, is a small, sharp piece of bone that protrudes through the gum tissue. These spicules can develop following dental procedures like tooth extractions or as a result of trauma to the mouth. They may cause discomfort and can interfere with daily activities such as eating and speaking.
Causes of Bone Spurs in Gums
Several factors can lead to the formation of bone spurs in the gums:
- Tooth Extraction: After a tooth extraction is done, small bone fragments may become dislodged and protrude through the gum as the area heals. This is a common cause of bone spicules.
- Dental Trauma: Injuries to the mouth can result in bone fragments breaking off due to dental trauma and emerging through the gum tissue during the healing process.
- Oral Surgery: Procedures involving the jawbone may sometimes leave behind bone fragments that later surface as spicules.
- Bone Remodeling: The natural reshaping of bone, especially after dental procedures, can lead to the formation of sharp bone edges that protrude through the gums.
Symptoms of Bone Spurs in Gums
Identifying a bone spur in the gum involves recognizing the following symptoms:
- Sharp or Hard Protrusion: A noticeable hard, bony lump on the gum that may feel sharp to the tongue or finger.
- Discomfort or Pain: The area around the bone spur may be tender, especially when eating or brushing.
- Swelling or Redness: Inflammation around the affected gum tissue is common.
- Difficulty with Oral Functions: Chewing, speaking, or maintaining oral hygiene may become challenging due to discomfort.
Treatment for Bone Spurs in Gums
When dealing with a bone spur in the gum, several treatment options are available:
- Observation: In some cases, bone spicules may work themselves out naturally without intervention. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure no complications arise.
- Professional Removal: If the bone spur causes significant discomfort or does not resolve on its own, a dental professional can perform a minor procedure to remove it. This is typically done under local anaesthesia and is a straightforward process.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage discomfort and reduce swelling associated with bone spurs.
Home Remedies for Managing Bone Spurs in Gums
While professional consultation is recommended, certain home remedies can provide temporary relief:
- Saltwater Rinses: Gently rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and keep the area clean, promoting healing.
- Soft Diet: Consuming soft foods minimises irritation to the affected area, allowing for more comfortable eating.
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb discomfort.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining proper oral hygiene by gently brushing and flossing can prevent infection and promote healing.
Prevention of Bone Spurs in Gums
To reduce the risk of developing bone spurs in the gums:
- Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions: Adhering to your dentist’s guidelines after dental procedures can promote proper healing and minimise complications.
- Protect Your Mouth: Using mouthguards during sports and avoiding chewing hard objects can prevent trauma that might lead to bone spurs.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine dental visits allow for early detection and management of potential issues before they develop into more significant problems.
Conclusion
A bone spur in the gum can be an uncomfortable experience, but understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage the condition effectively. While some bone spicules may resolve on their own, persistent or painful spurs should be evaluated and treated by a dental professional. Implementing preventive measures and maintaining good oral hygiene can further reduce the likelihood of developing bone spurs in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
A bone spur in gum feels like a hard, sharp protrusion in the gum. It may cause discomfort, irritation, or mild pain, especially when touched with the tongue or while chewing.
Yes, some bone spicules may naturally come out as the gum heals. However, persistent, painful bone spurs in gums may need professional removal to avoid discomfort or infection.
Home remedies like warm salt water rinses and good oral hygiene can help. However, attempting removal of bone spur in gum at home isn’t safe—consult a dentist for proper treatment.
Healing depends on the size of the sharp bone sticking out of gum and may take weeks to months. Dental removal speeds up recovery, while home care helps manage discomfort.
Yes, bone spicule after tooth extraction is common as the bone heals. Small bone fragments in gums may emerge naturally, but large ones might require professional removal.
The gum bone spur removal procedure is painless due to anaesthesia. Post-removal, mild soreness or swelling may occur, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
