What is a common term for local enlargement of the gums?

A common term for local enlargement of the gums is "epulis." This term specifically refers to a benign growth on the gums, often resulting from irritation or trauma, and can appear as a lump that protrudes from the gum line. Epulis can be caused by various factors, including chronic irritation from dental appliances or poor oral hygiene, and it is typically found in the gingival tissue.

In contrast, thrush refers to a fungal infection in the mouth due to Candida, which can cause white patches but does not locally enlarge the gum tissue in the same way. Aphthous ulcers are small, painful ulcers that occur on the mucous membranes within the mouth, which can affect the appearance of the gums but do not cause a permanent enlargement. Malocclusion describes the misalignment of teeth, affecting bite and jaw alignment, rather than referring to any specific growth or enlargement of the gums. Each of these terms relates to different oral health conditions, emphasizing why "epulis" is the correct answer to describe local gum enlargement.