What Is a Dental Fistula and Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It?

June 23, 2026By Dr. Even Olson

That Little Bump on Your Gum Might Be Telling You Something

Have you ever noticed a small pimple-like bump on your gum and dismissed it as nothing serious? That little bump could be a dental fistula—and ignoring it may lead to consequences far worse than discomfort. At Alpine Family Dental, our Dentist Dr. Evan Olson wants patients in Kalispell to understand the warning signs their mouth is sending them.

Have any questions or want to schedule your dental appointment? Call Alpine Family Dental at (406) 752-1107.

What Is a Dental Fistula?

A dental fistula (also called a sinus tract or gum boil) is a small channel that forms in the gum tissue to drain pus from an infection deep inside the tooth or jawbone. Think of it as your body’s attempt to relieve pressure from a bacterial infection it cannot fight on its own.

It typically appears as a raised, white, yellow, or red bump on the gums—sometimes with a small opening at the tip. You may notice a salty or bitter taste in your mouth, which is the fistula actively draining.

What Causes a Dental Fistula?

Dental fistulas are always a sign of an underlying infection. Common causes include:

A tooth abscess (bacterial infection at the root tip or in the pulp)
Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) that has spread to the bone
A failed or failing root canal that didn’t fully eliminate the infection
A cracked or fractured tooth that allowed bacteria to enter
Trauma to the tooth that went untreated

Dental Fistula Symptoms to Watch For

Not everyone with a dental fistula experiences pain, which is exactly why they’re so often ignored. Because the fistula is actively draining the infection, pressure is relieved, and pain may be minimal. Don’t let the absence of pain fool you. Warning signs include:

A small bump or blister on the gum near a tooth
Persistent bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth
Mild to moderate tooth or gum sensitivity
Swelling in the gums or face
The bump appears to “pop” and drain, then return

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Dental Fistula

A dental fistula never resolves on its own. While it may appear to come and go, the underlying infection remains active the entire time. Left untreated, the consequences can be serious:

Bone Loss: The infection slowly destroys the jawbone surrounding the affected tooth.
Tooth Loss: Severe enough infection or bone destruction can make the tooth unsalvageable.
Spread of Infection: Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart, lungs, or brain—a rare but life-threatening risk.
Damage to Neighboring Teeth: The infection can spread to adjacent teeth and tissue.

How Is a Dental Fistula Diagnosed?

Dr. Evan Olson will examine the bump visually and probe the area gently to assess its depth. A dental X-ray is typically taken to trace the fistula back to its source and evaluate the extent of infection or bone involvement. In some cases, a small piece of gutta-percha (a rubber-like material) is threaded into the tract to confirm its origin on the X-ray.

Treatment Options for Dental Fistula

The right treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the condition of the affected tooth. Options include:

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal therapy is the most common treatment. If the tooth is salvageable, Dr. Evan Olson will remove the infected pulp, clean and seal the root canals, and place a crown. Once the source of infection is eliminated, the fistula typically heals on its own within a few weeks.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics alone cannot cure a dental fistula because they cannot penetrate the dead tissue inside an infected tooth. They may be prescribed in conjunction with dental treatment to help control the spread of infection.

Tooth Extraction

If the tooth is too damaged to save, extraction removes the source of infection entirely. Replacement options such as dental implants or bridges can be discussed with Dr. Evan Olson at Alpine Family Dental.

Gum or Bone Surgery

In advanced cases where the infection has spread to the bone or surrounding tissue, surgical debridement or bone grafting may be necessary to restore health and structure.

Can a Dental Fistula Be Prevented?

In most cases, yes. Dental fistulas are the result of infections that develop over time—often from cavities, gum disease, or trauma that goes untreated. Prevention strategies include:

Brushing twice daily and flossing every day
Scheduling regular cleanings and checkups at Alpine Family Dental
Treating cavities and gum disease early, before they progress
Wearing a mouthguard during contact sports to prevent tooth trauma
Never ignore a toothache, sensitivity, or unusual bump in your mouth

When to Call Alpine Family Dental

If you notice any bump, blister, or recurring sore on your gums with or without pain, don’t wait. Contact our dental office in Kalispell at (406) 752-1107 as soon as possible.

Early intervention is almost always simpler, faster, and less costly than waiting. Dr. Evan Olson and our team are here to help you get back to a healthy, pain-free smile.

Don’t Wait on That Gum Bump — We Can Help. Schedule Your Appointment Today

Don’t ignore the signs. If you’re in Kalispell and have noticed a bump on your gum or any unusual oral symptoms, Alpine Family Dental is here for you. Call us at (406) 752-1107 to schedule your dental appointment. We welcome patients in Kalispell and the surrounding areas.

Call Our Office for More Information

New Patients: (406) 752-1107 | Existing Patients: (406) 752-1107

Book an Appointment

Dr. Evan Olson, D. ABDSM, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a dentist. He completed his degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience at Montana State University in Bozeman and then attended The University of Iowa College of Dentistry. Dr. Olson then practiced in a Community Health setting for five years treating all types of dental emergencies. He then ran a private practice in Central Oregon for seven years before moving back to Montana to take over Alpine Family Dental.

Dr. Olson was recently named a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, which signifies extensive training and knowledge in treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea and snoring. He is a Fellow of The Implant Pathway Surgical Program, a Member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and Academy of General Dentistry, and a Mentor for the CEREC Doctors training program. He has completed significant continuing education in many areas of dentistry including with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Mastery Program, training on dental implants at Implant Pathway, Misch Institute, and Pikos Institute, an internship on root canals at the University of Iowa, cosmetic dentistry courses at CDOCS and Spear Education, and further studies on infant frenectomy and CAD/CAM techniques.

Dr. Autumn Chapman received her degree in physiology from the University of Wyoming and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. She worked alongside her grandfather, Dr. Gerald Olson, in Havre, MT, before moving to Flathead Valley. Dr Chapman has been able to focus on education and training in facial esthetics and cosmetic dentistry. She has Training in orthodontics using suresmile clear aligners with CDOCs in Scottsdale and Training in Botox and filler with the american academy of facial esthetics.

Dr. Greg Eller obtained his degree in Aeronautical Maintenance and spent six years as a Skydiving Instructor. He then attended the University of Oregon where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in Pre-Medicine and the Oregon Health Sciences University Dental School. He is a member of the American Dental Association and Montana Dental Association and has IV moderate sedation training. After 14 years at Alpine Family Dental, Dr. Eller has now transitioned out of full-time practice.