You get gum balls, also known as gum boils or abscesses, in your mouth due to an infection caused by poor dental hygiene.
What are Gum Balls?
Gum balls, more accurately called gum boils or abscesses, are swollen lumps that form on your gums. They can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. According to the reference, these boils are not typically related to oral cancer, but they do indicate an underlying issue.
Causes of Gum Balls
The primary cause of gum balls is poor dental hygiene. This leads to the following:
- Food Particles Build Up: When you don't brush and floss regularly, food gets trapped between your teeth and gums.
- Plaque Formation: These food particles then contribute to the formation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria.
- Tooth Decay: Plaque, if not removed, can lead to tooth decay, further exacerbating the issue.
- Infection: This buildup of bacteria and decay creates an environment ripe for infection, which manifests as a gum boil or abscess. The reference confirms that these infections result from a buildup of food particles, plaque, and decay.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| Poor Oral Hygiene | Food and plaque buildup leading to bacterial infection, thus a gum boil |
Prevention of Gum Balls
Here's how to prevent gum boils from forming:
- Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- Floss Daily: Floss at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups to catch potential issues early.
- Balanced Diet: A diet low in sugary and starchy foods helps in reducing plaque and decay.
In Summary
Gum balls are a result of infections caused by poor oral hygiene leading to food particles and plaque build up. Maintaining good dental habits can help to avoid these.
