An oral fibroma is a common, non-cancerous growth that can appear inside the mouth. It typically presents as a smooth, dome-shaped lump. These growths often form on the inner cheek, tongue, or lips. While generally harmless, an oral fibroma can become bothersome depending on its size and location.
What is an Oral Fibroma?
An oral fibroma is a benign lesion, meaning it is not cancerous. It is an overgrowth of normal fibrous connective tissue, abundant in the soft tissues of the mouth. These growths have a firm, rubbery texture and a smooth surface. They vary in size, often ranging from a few millimeters to a couple of centimeters. Common locations include the inside of the cheek (frequently along the bite line), sides of the tongue, inner surface of the lips, or gums. Its color usually blends with the surrounding oral mucosa, appearing pink or sometimes slightly white due to surface keratinization from friction.
The Role of Chronic Irritation
The primary cause of an oral fibroma is repeated or chronic irritation or trauma to oral soft tissues. This continuous friction, rubbing, or biting acts as a persistent stimulus to underlying cells. In response to this ongoing mechanical stress, fibroblasts—cells responsible for producing connective tissue—become overactive. This leads to excessive production and accumulation of collagen fibers, the main structural protein of connective tissue. The resulting mass of overgrown, dense fibrous tissue forms the oral fibroma. It is considered a reactive lesion, meaning it develops as a direct biological response to an external, sustained stimulus rather than from an uncontrolled cellular proliferation like a tumor.
Common Sources of Irritation
Several everyday factors can lead to the chronic irritation necessary for an oral fibroma:
- Habitual cheek or lip biting, an unconscious action that repeatedly traumatizes the same oral tissue.
- Ill-fitting dentures or other dental appliances causing persistent rubbing or pressure against the soft tissues.
- Sharp edges on teeth, such as from a chip or an old filling, continuously abrading the adjacent cheek or tongue.
- Rough dental restorations, such as fillings or crowns with uneven surfaces, creating friction against the oral mucosa.
- Orthodontic wires or brackets rubbing against the inner mouth, leading to localized trauma over time.
- Repeated accidental trauma from chewing, where a person consistently bites the same spot, contributing to fibroma formation.
Minimizing Your Risk
Taking proactive steps can reduce the likelihood of developing an oral fibroma. Becoming aware of and stopping unconscious habits like cheek or lip biting is a practical first step. Regular dental check-ups allow a dentist to identify and smooth any sharp teeth or rough dental restorations causing irritation. For individuals with dentures or other dental appliances, ensuring proper fit to avoid discomfort or rubbing is important; if an appliance feels loose or causes sores, a dental professional should adjust it. Promptly addressing dental issues, such as chipped teeth or loose fillings, can prevent them from becoming chronic sources of irritation.