A gum boil is a small ball of pus full of infection which that bulges out on the gum. It is a localized dental infection, usually from a infected dead tooth, gum disease or failed root canal. In most cases, it's soft but becomes hard with pressure build up. Patients with lowered immune resistance, such as diabetics and people with HIV, tend to have them. They can be painful until they burst and drain.

          With time, the gum boil usually pops and drains pus. Draining is a good thing because a path of drainage removes the dangerous dental infection that causes this problem. When draining, it's called a parulis or fistula. However, the original cause of the problem is still there and needs treatment to be removed. In most cases, there's a dental cause and a dentist should be consulted.

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

          The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. They offer periodontal treatment, root canal therapy and if necessary, tooth extractions. If you are have a gum boil and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, make an appointment at 404-874-7428.