epulis

Last reviewed 01/2018

This is a benign, localised swelling of the gingiva.

There are two types:

• fibrous epulis:
• fibrous tissue tumour that arises from the periodontal membrane
• usually presents as a slowly growing, smooth, firm lump that generally emerges between two teeth
• this lesion is treated via excision and curettage of the origin

• giant cell epulis:
• consists of giant cells in a vascular stroma
• may invade local bone
• often, like the fibrous variety, presents as a gingival lump emerging between two teeth, however it grows more quickly and is an irregular red fleshy mass
• the mass may ulcerate or bleed
• treatment is extraction of associated teeth and excision and curettage of local bone, this form of treatment is necessary in order to prevent recurrence