What is a hard lump on the wall of your gum?

There are several potential causes for a hard lump on the wall of your gum. While some causes may be harmless, it is always important to have your dentist evaluate any such lump to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Here are a few possible explanations:

1. Periapical Cyst: A periapical cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops at the apex (tip) of the root of a tooth, often due to untreated dental caries or infection. It can cause a hard, painless swelling on the gum.

2. Fibroma: Fibromas are non-cancerous, benign growths of fibrous tissue that can occur in the mouth, including on the gums. They typically feel firm or hard to the touch and can be either sessile (broad-based) or pedunculated (on a stalk).

3. Exostosis: Also known as a "bone spur," an exostosis is a bony growth that can protrude from the jawbone into the soft tissue of the gums. Exostoses are usually painless unless they become irritated or inflamed.

4. Canker Sore: While canker sores are typically small and shallow ulcers, larger ones can sometimes feel like hard lumps on the gums. Canker sores are usually painful and may appear as round or oval sores with a yellowish or grayish center and a red border.

5. Malignant Lesion: In rare cases, a hard lump on the gum could be a sign of a malignant lesion, such as oral cancer. If the lump is persistent, painless, and does not go away on its own, it is crucial to have it checked by a dentist or an oral surgeon for further evaluation.

It is recommended that you visit your dentist as soon as possible to have the lump properly diagnosed and receive appropriate treatment if necessary. The dentist may perform an examination, take X-rays, and possibly recommend a biopsy to determine the exact cause of the lump and develop a suitable treatment plan.