Do not try to puncture or squeeze an unexplained oral lump yourself.
3. Swollen or Irritated Gums
Healthy gums generally appear pink and should not bleed regularly during brushing or flossing.
Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums are commonly associated with gingivitis, an early form of gum disease.
The main cause is usually plaque buildup along the gumline.
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious infection and inflammation affecting the tissues and bone that support the teeth.
Possible signs include:
- Bleeding while brushing
- Persistent bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Gum tenderness
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Changes in how teeth fit together
Regular brushing, cleaning between the teeth, and professional dental care are important for prevention and treatment.
4. A White Patch That Doesn't Go Away
Not every white patch in the mouth is dangerous.
Some can result from irritation, trauma, fungal infections, or other benign conditions.
But a persistent white patch that cannot be easily wiped away may require professional evaluation.
One possibility is leukoplakia, a condition characterized by a white patch or plaque in the mouth that cannot be attributed to another identifiable cause.
Some leukoplakia lesions can contain abnormal cells, and a small proportion may eventually be associated with oral cancer.
That does not mean every white patch is cancer.
It means persistent unexplained changes should not simply be ignored.