Pyogenic granuloma is a common reactive tumor-like nodular growth, it can grow anywhere in the mouth but is commonly seen in the gums, lips, tongue, and inside of the cheeks.

How Does an Oral Pyogenic Granuloma Look?

The clinical features include:

• The surface of the growth is usually ulcerated.
• It is usually painless.
• It is red or purple in color.
• The surface can be smooth or lobulated.
• It can be pedunculated (attached to the skin through a stalk) or – sessile (attached without a stalk).
• The lesion is soft.

What Are the Causes of Oral Pyogenic Granuloma?

• External injury or trauma to the gums.
• Poor oral hygiene.
• Long-term irritation to the gums from an overhanging restoration or calculus.
• Hormonal imbalance.
• Implantitis (inflammation around a dental implant).

How Is an Oral Pyogenic Granuloma Diagnosed?

Your dentist will diagnose this condition based on clinical features and will also take radiographs with a biopsy to differentiate it from other conditions.

How Is an Oral Pyogenic Granuloma Treated?

Surgical excision of the lesion is the treatment of choice. After excision, the underlying tissue is scrapped (curettage).

Can Oral Pyogenic Granuloma Be Prevented?

Some of the ways to prevent this lesion are:

• Brush your teeth properly twice a day.
• Use a soft bristle brush that does not irritate your gums.
• Get scaling and polishing done every 6 months.
• If a dental restoration has become loose, get it refilled.
• If any tooth filling impinges on your gums, consult your dentist immediately.
• Clean the space between two teeth properly by flossing every day.
• visit your dentist for a routine dental check-up every 6 months