Growths under the tongue that resemble skin tags are often referred to as an oral fibroma, or sometimes a lingual frenum tag.
Understanding Oral Skin Tags
A growth under the tongue that resembles a skin tag is often referred to as an oral fibroma, or sometimes a lingual frenum tag. Unlike typical skin tags found on the body’s outer surface, these oral growths are composed of localized connective tissue within the mouth’s mucous membrane, not the outer layer of skin. Oral fibromas usually present as firm, smooth, and raised bumps, often matching the color of the surrounding oral tissue, though they can sometimes appear paler or darker if they have bled. They commonly develop in response to chronic irritation or trauma, such as habitually biting the cheek or tongue, friction from ill-fitting dental appliances like dentures or braces, or even rough tooth surfaces. These growths typically range up to about 1 centimeter in diameter but can occasionally grow larger.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While oral fibromas are generally benign, professional evaluation is important to confirm the diagnosis and rule out more serious conditions. You should consult a healthcare provider, such as a dentist, oral surgeon, or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, if you notice any changes in the growth. Signs that warrant immediate medical attention include rapid growth, changes in color or shape, or if the growth becomes painful or starts bleeding. Difficulty with speech, chewing, or swallowing, or any numbness in the mouth area, also necessitate prompt medical assessment. Self-diagnosis or attempting to remove the growth yourself is not recommended due to the delicate oral environment and the possibility of misidentifying a potentially serious lesion.
Medical Removal Procedures
When removal is necessary, a healthcare professional can employ several medical procedures to safely address an oral growth under the tongue. Surgical excision is a common method, where the growth is precisely cut away with a scalpel under local anesthesia. This approach allows for the entire lesion to be removed and sent for pathological examination, confirming its benign nature. Depending on the size and location, stitches may be used to close the wound, which typically dissolve within 7 to 10 days.
Laser removal is another frequently used technique that offers precision and can minimize bleeding and swelling. A focused laser beam targets and vaporizes the tissue, sealing blood vessels as it cuts, which often eliminates the need for stitches. This method can lead to faster healing times and reduced post-operative discomfort. The procedure is generally quick, often completed in just a few minutes, with the area numbed beforehand.
Cryotherapy involves freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen, causing the tissue to die and eventually slough off. While effective for some lesions, this method may be less precise for growths in the delicate oral environment. The choice of procedure depends on factors such as the growth’s size and location, the patient’s overall health, and the healthcare provider’s expertise.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following the removal of an oral growth, some mild soreness, swelling, or minor bleeding can be expected in the treated area. These sensations are typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers or medications prescribed by your healthcare provider. Applying an ice pack to the outside of the jaw for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling in the first 24-48 hours.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important during recovery, but gentle care is necessary to avoid irritating the surgical site. Your provider may recommend rinsing gently with warm salt water several times a day, typically starting 24 hours after the procedure, to help keep the area clean and promote healing. Eating soft foods for a few days post-procedure and avoiding hot, spicy, or rough-textured foods can prevent irritation and aid comfort. Most individuals can return to their normal routines within a few days, with complete healing usually occurring within one to two weeks, depending on the removal method and size of the growth. Watch for signs of complications like excessive bleeding, severe pain, or pus, and contact your healthcare provider if these occur.