Infections
Infections are a very common cause of holes in the gums. This can happen due to viruses or bacteria.
One example of this is a condition called herpetic gingivostomatitis [3], which is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) [4]. This condition is more common amongst children that have initially contracted HSV, but it can also sometimes happen in adults.
Herpetic gingivostomatitis causes lesions to appear in the mouth, including on the gums. These lesions can appear concave or cratered and may form ulcers.
Other symptoms of this condition include:
- red, swollen gums
- fever
- loss of appetite
- irritability
- malaise
- swollen lymph nodes
It typically resolves on its own.
There are other infections that can cause holes in the gum, although they are rare. An example is an actinomycosis [5], a bacterial infection that can affect the mouth and jaw. In rare cases, this infection has been documented to lead to holes in the gums.
Open tooth socket
An open tooth socket is another possible cause of a hole in the gum. It is usually followed by tooth extraction. This “hole” heals over time, filling with a bone about 8 weeks after the extraction.
Pain and swelling are common following an extraction. To avoid more complications, it is important not to disturb the area too much as it heals. Doing so can lead to a dry socket, a painful condition in which the nerve and bone of the healing tooth socket are exposed.