Gums Swollen with White Spots? Causes, Treatment & When to See Your Dentist

There are many types of periodontal concerns, the most common of which is gingivitis or gum disease. With good dental hygiene , gingivitis may go away by itself. However, there are other periodontal concerns which require you to visit the dentist. For example, if your gums are swollen with white spots then you may require medical attention.

The symptoms of this may vary from patient to patient. You may notice that your gums are swollen with either white spots, white patches or white lacy webs. This may be uncomfortable and painful or cause bleeding and other symptoms. In some cases where your gum is swollen with white spots, symptoms may clear away by themselves. If they are failing to subside fairly quickly, you should visit your dentist.

Causes and Treatment When Your Gums are Swollen with White Spots

Your gum may be swollen and have white spots for different reasons. The most common of these conditions and how they can be treated are discussed below.

Canker Sores

A canker sore is the most common culprit when your gums are swollen and white spots are present. It can be a white or yellow raised spot and is often surrounded by a bright red ring. Canker sores occur as a result of a viral infection,  a lowered immune system, vitamin deficiency or an injury to the mouth. Although they can be painful, most canker sores heal by themselves. Any pain should decrease in a few days but other symptoms may take up to two weeks. During this time you must maintain a good dental hygiene routine to prevent any spread of infection and take OTC painkillers to help with the pain.

It is important that you visit your dentist if your symptoms haven’t subsided after two weeks, or if you develop a fever, headache, diarrhoea or rash. You should also inform your dentist if you suffer from canker sores regularly, for example, two or three times a year. This may be indicative of an autoimmune disease or other underlying illness which will require medical attention.

Oral Thrush

You may notice your gums are swollen with white spots if you are suffering from oral thrush: a mouth infection caused by the Candida fungus. It presents itself as creamy white lesions or white spots on the gums, tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, tonsils or back of the throat. This can cause soreness, burning, bleeding, pain and irritation in the mouth. Certain patients are at a greater risk of developing oral thrush than others. This includes patients with immunosuppression, such as those suffering from HIV/AIDS or cancer. It can also be common in patients with diabetes, and certain medications (such as antibiotics) increase the risk of oral thrush. In dentistry, it has been found that there is an increased risk of developing this type of infection for patients who wear dentures.

Prevention of oral thrush requires a good dental hygiene routine, including brushing your teeth at least twice a day and visiting the dentist on a regular basis – especially for patients who wear dentures. It is important that dentures are thoroughly cleaned and taken out at night, and that patients brush their gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush to reduce bacteria and fungi in the mouth. Patients with autoimmune or chronic illnesses should visit the dentist more regularly to ensure their mouth is clean, healthy and free of any infections or underlying dental conditions. Oral thrush can clear up by itself; however, a visit to the dentist is recommended to diagnose lesions or white spots in your mouth correctly. If the infection appears to be spreading it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Also patients with underlying conditions, especially a weakened immune system should speak to the dentist to address further complications. Your dentist can prescribe appropriate antifungal medication and advise you on preventative measures for the future.

Oral Lichen Planus

You may notice that your gums are swollen with white spots present if you are suffering from oral lichen planus. This is an inflammatory condition that can cause white spots or lacy patches on your gums or inside your mouth. These can be sore and painful, and cause burning or discomfort in the mouth.

Oral lichen planus may be caused as a result of an immune disorder. It may also be a result of certain medications, such as those for cardiovascular disease, or certain dental issues (i.e. if your teeth are sharp and cut the inside of your mouth regularly). Dental prosthetics such as dentures can also increase the chances of developing this disease.

Although there are no specific methods to avoid oral lichen planus, it is important to maintain good dental hygiene, visit the dentist on a regular basis, maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.

If you notice symptoms of oral lichen planus, visit your dentist for a proper diagnosis and management of your symptoms. Milder forms of the disease often cease without intervention, or you may require treatment such as a course of corticosteroids or similar. 

Confirm Your Symptoms

If you have noticed that your gums are swollen with white spots, speak to your dentist as soon as possible. They will provide you with an accurate diagnosis and the required treatment, and refer you to a doctor for further tests and investigation if necessary.