Hello, for a year I have redness along my gumline on my back tooth that has spread to another tooth. It doesn't hurt but it hasn't healed after two dental cleanings in the past year. What could it be?
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Gum cancer?
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3 UpVoted this answer
Also, consider the possibility of this being associated with oral contraceptives. Even though you noted no medications, our patients frequently overlook birth control as a medication.Just a thought.
3 UpVoted this answer
Most likely a periodontal issue. Let your dentist know of your concern and discuss treatment options or possibly a 2nd opinion from a periodontist. It could also be from a change needed in your homecare techniques, ie when brushing you may be at the incorrect angle which does not let the bristles of the brush access to below the gum line.
2 UpVoted this answer
This is definitely not cancer. Unfortunately, besides gingivitis, it could be a number of other conditions. The most concerning ones would be mucous membrane insidious onset pemphigoid or pemphigus vulgaris. I cannot advise a gingival biopsy simply based on the above picture. I agree with the other professionals below. The best way to find out is to see a periodontist.
1 UpVoted this answer
To me it looks like gingivitis and not cancer. gingivitis is inflammation of the gums usually caused by dental plaque. Brushing thoroughly with a soft brush along the gum line should help this if plaque is the cause. A chlorhexidine rinse (prescription mouth wash) may also help because it suppresses the bacteria which live in the plaque and irritate the gums. When you had your teeth cleaned did you ask your dentist about this?
1 UpVoted this answer
It doesn't present as a gum cancer, so I wouldn't be worried about that. It can be a number of different things though. It doesn't look like something that is related to dental cleanings, so I would definitely recommend seeing a gum specialist for this. It doesn't look like anything aggressive, but you definitely want to get it checked out before it gets worse. Hope that helps.
1 UpVoted this answer
No, based only on your description and this one photograph, it's not cancer. If the red area has persisted after two cleanings, I would think it is time to see a gum specialist, a Periodontist. This may have to do with hygiene technique, infection, medications and/or vitamins/supplements, or traumatic occlusion. Please ask your Dentist for the name of a well-qualified Periodontist in your area, and take a copy of your most recent x-rays with you.
1 UpVoted this answer
Thank you for your submission. I don't believe that this is cancer. I would ask for a referral to a periodontist (gum specialist) if it hasn't healed after two cleanings. Also, how is your home care between cleanings? It sometimes requires perfect home brushing and flossing between. There are other possible problems but you would need a proper examination by a periodontist.
1 UpVoted this answer
I do not think it is anything other than gingivitis. Go back to your dentist or Hygienist and have them make sure there is no calculus under the tissue and then have them check your brushing technique to make sure you are getting the area completely clean. If you still have problems then check with a periodontist. Good Luck
1 UpVoted this answer
Well the encouraging news is that it doesn't appear to be a form of cancer. The gingival margin, or the "gum line" is not a typical place for malignancies. It looks granulomatous which just is a technical term for many blood capillaries that swell up. Looks like pregnancy gingivitis, but since it has been over a year it rules that out. I would ask you dentist to follow it carefully for any change and possibly see an oral surgeon or periodontist for an evaluation, and simply peace of mind.
1 UpVoted this answer
The area does not appear to be of Oral Cancer nature, from the photograph. The amount of inflammation does look concerning. I assume brushing and flossing with proper technique and proper soft toothbrush with rounded bristles is happening. Inadequate oral hygiene, trauma or reaction to food, medicine could be the cause. I would recommend letting your Dentist or Periodontist look at area and discuss treatment and/or Oral care for your situation.