A gum ball is a small ball of pus sticking out of the gum. It is a localized dental infection, from a dead tooth, gum disease or failed root canal. It's usually soft but can be hard with increased pressure. Patients with lowered immune resistance, such as diabetics and people with HIV, tend to have them.

          With time, the gum ball usually pops and drains pus. Draining is a good thing because a path of drainage removes the dangerous dental infection that cause this problem. When it's draining, it's called a parulis or fistula.

          A gum ball tells you that something serious is wrong that requires dental care.The correct treatment depends on the cause. A dead tooth be treated with root canal therapy or removed. Gum infections require scaling and root planing and often periodontal surgery. In this day and age of dangerous resistant dental infections, it is very important to treat dental problems early.

          If you are have a gum ball and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, please call and make an appointment at 404-874-7428.