What's that soft lump in between the tooth and gum?

Question

I'd a soft lump in between the upper tooth and gum since about 2 weeks ago. I thought it will go off soon, but it is still there although it is painless. What is this?? There's a small hole (cavity) in the tooth near the gum. Is it due to the bad tooth. Some said rubbing salt on it will help to eliminate the soft lump. Will it work?? Shall I wait or ignore it or do I have to get the tooth extracted? Will the soft lump disappear after the tooth is extracted?? Do I have any other options beside getting the tooth extracted, as preferably I do not wish to lose that tooth. Urgent! as it's already been abt 2 wks.

Can anyone help? Thank you

Answer 1

Its called a fistula. A channel emanating pus from an infection site. You will most likely need a root canal. When you go to the dentist(you should see a endodontist)he will use a probe instrument to poke a tiny hole on the bump if its not already draining.He will then place a rubber type material called gutta percha into the bump to trace the source of the infection and then take an xray. It doesnt hurt so dont worry about that. After he finishes the root canal he will then remove the fistula with an instrument.You will need to be seen again to check that the fistula has disappeared.

Answer 2

You sound as though you have an infection below the gum line.
(Gingivitis) This is causing the lump. as you call it.
Don't ignore this problem, as it won't go away of its own accord.
This is a result of not cleaning your teeth in the correct manner. A dentist will show you the correct method.
No doubt the dentist will take xrays to see how much, or how far the infection has gone.
Don't want to scare you, but Gingivitis can lead to extractions if not treated. And you did state that you have a cavity.