Ulcer on gum that won t go away
A gum ulcer that persists needs examination because trauma, infection, inflammatory disease, or another lesion may look similar.
The short answer
An ulcer on the gum that does not heal should be examined to find whether trauma, infection, inflammation, or another oral lesion is responsible. The dentist inspects its edge, base, colour, texture, and nearby teeth or appliances.
What happens to the tissue when a gum ulcer forms?
An ulcer is a break in the oral lining that can expose tender underlying tissue. Causes include a sharp tooth or appliance, biting, a thermal injury, a canker-type ulcer, infection, medication effects, and less common diseases.
How can you protect a persistent ulcer while it heals?
Rinse gently with water or a mild salt solution, use a soft toothbrush, and avoid spicy, acidic, or sharp foods. Do not scrape the ulcer or apply caustic substances, and photograph it to track change without repeatedly touching it.
When does a gum ulcer require prompt dental assessment?
Arrange an examination for any ulcer that persists, enlarges, bleeds easily, becomes firm, or returns in the same place. Seek earlier care for neck lumps, numbness, unexplained weight change, or difficulty swallowing.
What should you ask about testing a persistent gum ulcer?
Ask whether a sharp tooth, filling, denture, or gum infection is rubbing the area and whether the lesion needs a swab or biopsy. Ask what treatment protects the tissue and when it should be checked again.
Frequently asked questions
Can a sharp tooth cause a gum ulcer?
Yes. Repeated rubbing from a tooth, filling, denture, or orthodontic component can injure the lining.
Will a dentist always perform a biopsy?
No. The dentist first examines the lesion and decides whether monitoring, removal of irritation, testing, or referral is appropriate.
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.