What does the term mean?
A possible drainage pathway from an inflamed area to an oral surface.
← All explanationsDental sinus tract
What can a small gum 'pimple' mean?
A dental sinus tract, often called a dental fistula, is a drainage pathway from an inflamed area to an oral surface. A tooth is often the source. The opening may cause little pain but still needs dental assessment.
For dental trainees & teams
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An opening may have a deeper cause
An inflamed area can develop a drainage pathway to the oral lining. Only the small exit point may be visible.
Less pressure does not mean healing
Draining fluid can reduce symptoms. The underlying cause of inflammation may remain.
Have the cause examined
Do not squeeze or open it yourself. The source and appropriate treatment need dental assessment.
At a glance
Why can there be little pain?
Drainage can reduce pressure without removing the cause of inflammation.
What should happen next?
Prompt dental assessment; immediate medical help for breathing or significant swallowing difficulty.
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Often confused
Sinus tract or abscess?
An abscess is a collection of pus. A sinus tract is a possible drainage pathway from it; the terms are not interchangeable.
Quick answers
Is every gum bump a sinus tract?
No. Different changes can look similar. A photograph alone cannot establish the cause.
Can I wait if it does not hurt?
A possible drainage tract should be assessed promptly. Lack of pain does not exclude ongoing infection.
When is immediate help needed?
Seek immediate medical help for breathing or significant swallowing difficulty, or rapidly increasing swelling.
At the practice
For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
What is causing the opening, and what treatment does the cause need?
The practice profile links tooth preservation with assessment of individual circumstances.
A possible sinus tract needs prompt assessment; please explain the reason when contacting the practice.
Contact the practice promptlyArrange an appointment with the practiceLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Drainage tract
- A pathway through which fluid can drain from an inflamed area.
- Apical
- At the root tip.
- Odontogenic
- Originating from a tooth or its tissues.
Know the difference
An exit opening does not automatically identify the precise cause or responsible tooth.
Sources for further learning
Sources and context
Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.