What is a Parulis? 

A parulis is a swollen bump on the gums that is caused by a draining oral infection. The swelling often fluctuates in size, and may be tender or painful.

The bump is usually the result of an infection in the underlying tooth or bone, and it serves as a drainage point for pus. While the presence of a parulis usually is not considered a medical emergency, it signifies that there's an infection that needs to be addressed.

What Causes a Parulis? 

The cause behind a parulis is an infection. This is most commonly an abscessed tooth, but may alternatively be a gum infection or an infection in the bone.

Essentially, when your body is fighting off an infection, it produces pus. The pus accumulates and eventually forms a channel (called a “fistula”) through the bone and soft tissues. Once the infection has traveled through bone and the underlying layers of soft tissues, it surfaces on the gums. Hence, a parulis or "bump on the gums" is formed.

If you've noticed a bump on your gums, you may be tempted to simply dismiss it, especially if it doesn't cause pain.

However, the presence of a parulis signals a more severe underlying issue. It's your body's way of telling you that there's an infection that needs attention.

After all, the infection reaching the surface means it has already broken through bone and gums. 

Treatment Options for Parulis

Treatment for parulis typically involves addressing the underlying issue causing the gum boil. Here are some potential treatment options:

• Root canal therapy: If the parulis is caused by a dead or dying tooth, root canal therapy may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp inside the tooth, disinfecting the tooth, and then sealing it.

• Tooth extraction: In some cases, if the tooth is too damaged, extraction might be the best option. The removal of the problematic tooth can eliminate the source of the infection, allowing the parulis to heal.

• Local debridement: If the source of the infection is a local irritant (such as buildup under the gums or a popcorn kernel), localized scaling and/or removal of the irritant may allow the infection to resolve.

Important note: Although your dentist may prescribe antibiotics, this is a temporary way to reduce swelling, but does not address the root cause of the issue.

Remember, only a dental professional can determine the appropriate treatment for your specific condition. If you suspect you have a parulis, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

How Do I Get Rid of a Parulis?

The only effective way to eliminate a parulis is to address the underlying infection.

This process almost always involves a root canal or tooth extraction, depending on the severity and location of the problem.

Your dentist will determine the appropriate treatment plan after conducting a thorough examination and X-rays to understand the origin and extent of the infection.

Remember, ignoring the infection (or attempting to drain it yourself) may lead to more serious complications, including the spread of the infection. It's crucial to consult a dental professional if you notice a parulis in your mouth.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While a small, painless gum boil may not seem like a cause for concern, a parulis is almost always a sign of a deeper issue that requires professional treatment. Here are some signs that it's time to see a dentist:

• The bump is causing pain or discomfort

• You experience swelling in the gums or mouth

• The bump grows significantly or fails to improve after a few days of home care

• You notice pus drainage from the bump

Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your oral health. If you're in doubt, make an appointment with your dentist.

Can a Parulis Go Away On Its Own?

A parulis might drain and appear to resolve on its own, which can lead to temporary relief from pain and swelling. However, this doesn't mean the underlying infection is gone. Without appropriate treatment, the infection will persist, and will almost certainly reappear in time.

In other words, while the Parulis itself might seem to come and go, the problem causing it – be it an abscessed tooth or a bone infection – remains.

Prevention of Parulis

Thankfully, there are several steps you can take to help prevent a bump on the gums from appearing in the first place:

• Maintain good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing can prevent tooth decay, which is a common cause of parulis

• Regular dental check-ups: Routine dental check-ups allow your dentist to spot and address any potential issues early, before they lead to conditions such as infections

• Timely treatment of dental issues: Don't ignore tooth pain or sensitivity. These could be signs of a deeper issue that, if left untreated, could result in infection and/or tooth loss.

Fistula vs. Parulis: What is the Difference?

Although these terms are often confused, a fistula refers to the passageway that the infection spreads through, while parulis refers to the “bump on the gums” where the fistula drains.

Final Thoughts

The presence of a parulis is a clear indication of an intra-oral infection. By seeking timely professional attention and following the prescribed treatment plan, you can prevent further complications and maintain your oral health.