What should you know about oral pyogenic granuloma?

A pyogenic granuloma, also called a lobular capillary haemangioma, is a non-cancerous overgrowth of small blood vessels. In the mouth it often appears as a red, smooth or uneven lump on the gum and may bleed with brushing or eating. Irritation from plaque, a sharp tooth, dental work, biting or hormonal changes can contribute. Appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis, and other growths can look similar. A dentist, oral surgeon or dermatologist may examine it and recommend tissue assessment after removal.

Arrange a dental or medical assessment rather than trying to cut, squeeze or burn the lump yourself. The clinician may remove it or use curettage and cautery, which scrapes away the tissue and treats the base to reduce bleeding. The underlying irritant should also be addressed, such as improving plaque control or smoothing a source of trauma. Follow the aftercare instructions, choose soft foods while the area heals and avoid disturbing the site. Tell the clinician about medicines that affect bleeding and any history of recurrence.

Seek urgent care if bleeding is heavy or does not stop with sustained pressure, or if swelling makes breathing or swallowing difficult. Arrange prompt review for a lump that grows quickly, repeatedly bleeds, becomes painful, develops discharge or returns after treatment. Fever, spreading redness or worsening swelling after a procedure may indicate infection and should be reported.

Could irritation from a tooth, appliance or gum inflammation be contributing? Will the lump be removed and examined? Is curettage and cautery suitable for its location? How should I control bleeding at home? What changes would suggest it has returned? When can I brush normally and resume usual foods?