White spots on the gums could be caused by something as simple as failing to brush your teeth properly. In most cases these white spots or patches will quickly disappear or can be easily treated by a dentist.
These more serious conditions include:
- Leukoplakia – mostly benign white patches often associated with smoking and tobacco use
- Canker sores – small, painful mouth ulcers that can appear on the gums
- Oral cancer – persistent white or mixed red-and-white patches that may not heal
- Oral thrush – a fungal infection caused by the Candida fungus, leading to creamy white patches on the gums and other areas in the mouth
If you notice white spots on your gums that do not disappear within a couple of weeks, become painful, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as bleeding, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss, you should see a dentist or doctor promptly for an examination and appropriate treatment.