White spots on the gums can be due to various reasons. These can range from mild issues to more severe conditions.
You may need to check if they are:
- Asymptomatic (any pain associated?), feels hard like bone underneath - likely just tori/exostoses (bony growth of the jaw). In most cases a non-issue.
- Fluctuant (soft) and/or painful - can seek a consultation to determine what it is or its cause.
If soft and/or painful, it could be:
- Canker sores: They develop on the soft tissues of the mouth and around the gums. Also known as mouth ulcers.
- Leukoplakia: It is characterised by thick, white patches in the mouth that cannot be scraped off with a toothbrush.
- Oral lichen planus: Refers to an autoimmune condition that involves inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth. It looks like white, lacy patches.
- Oral thrush: It is an oral infection caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus. It presents as slightly raised sores that are creamy white in appearance. They often have the texture of cottage cheese.
