Hi
I know many people have posted about lumps on the gum but I need some advice as I am worried about the lump my boyfriend has and the fact that the dentist does not know what it is!
A couple of weeks ago my boyfriend had an abscess in his gum which flared up and was very painful. He went to the dentist who said that it had been caused by a hole in a tooth which would need filling once the swelling went down. He was given antibiotics and the swelling went down very quickly and everything seemed ok.
He went back to the dentist today as advised to check that all was clear and the dentist discovered a hard lump on his gum (similar place to where the abscess was). My boyfriend had not noticed it was there until the dentist discovered it. The dentist then said that she didn't know what it was (which i find quite worrying) and that he would need to go to hospital. She said it's possible it is a cyst but could be something else.
I'm quite concerned as we don't really know why he is being referred to the hospital, or what type of specialist or what for exactly! He went to the hospital with a note from the dentist and was told he would receive a letter within a week!
Obviously I am worried about cancer etc, but i feel very confused as i don't feel I have all the info. If anyone has been in a similar situation or has any advice it would be much appreciated.
sorry for the long post but after hours of researching the internet and getting no answers i am not sure what else to do!
thank you

Hello Cerian

A hard bony swelling can arise as a result of a chronic infection which only became apparent when the abscess occurred. The dentist made the referral to the local maxillofacial unit as she was unsure of the diagnosis. If the dentist is unsure but wishes not to get it wrong, they might say 'query cancer' and this forces the MFU to see the patient within 2 weeks. Most such referrals are NOT cancer!

I suggest you relax and stop searching the Internet. There is no cancer diagnosis until it has been made through a biopsy. Do let us know how it turns out. We will be here if you need us. Even if you don't need us, you can meet us at the Walk.

Best wishes
Vinod