Hard bump above tooth
A hard bump above a tooth may be normal bone contour, an erupting tooth, or a draining point from a dental infection.
The short answer
A prominence may involve alveolar bone, a tooth root, an erupting tooth, a cyst, or an abscess that has expanded through bone. Firmness alone cannot identify it.
Why should a hard bump not be punctured or squeezed?
Do not puncture or squeeze it. Note size, tenderness, color, drainage, and relation to biting. Examination may include pulp tests, gum probing, and a periapical radiograph.
How soon should a persistent hard bump be assessed?
Arrange assessment for a new, enlarging, painful, draining, or persistent bump. Fever or difficulty opening, swallowing, or breathing needs urgent care.
When should a dentist assess a hard bump above a tooth?
Ask whether the bump is bone, gum, or a tooth-related lesion and whether an X-ray or referral is needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the first useful step?
Arrange assessment for a new, enlarging, painful, draining, or persistent bump. Fever or difficulty opening, swallowing, or breathing needs urgent care.
When should this be checked?
Ask whether the bump is bone, gum, or a tooth-related lesion and whether an X-ray or referral is needed.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.