What should you know about pyogenic granuloma gum?

A pyogenic granuloma, also known as a lobular capillary haemangioma, can appear as a red, smooth or lobulated bump on the gum. It contains many small blood vessels, so brushing, eating or accidental contact may make it bleed. It is not named for pus and is not necessarily caused by an infection. Irritation, local trauma or hormonal changes can be relevant, but a dental examination is needed because other gum lesions may appear similar.

Book an appointment with a dentist, oral surgeon or dermatologist familiar with mouth lesions. Continue gentle oral hygiene around the area without scrubbing the bump, and avoid biting or picking it. If it bleeds, place clean gauze over it and apply steady gentle pressure. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, recent dental work, medicines that affect bleeding and how long the lump has been present. Treatment may involve removal with control of bleeding; curettage and cautery is one option that may be discussed.

Get prompt care for repeated bleeding, rapid enlargement, increasing pain, facial swelling, pus, fever or difficulty eating. Emergency help is needed if swelling affects breathing or swallowing, bleeding is heavy or will not settle with pressure, or you feel faint. A persistent mouth growth deserves assessment even when it is not painful.

Ask whether the bump needs a biopsy or removal, what may be irritating it, how bleeding will be controlled, how to clean the area afterward, and when a review is needed if it returns.