An oral mucocele is a common, fluid-filled swelling that can appear inside the mouth. It is generally harmless and painless, often resembling a small blister or cyst. This condition arises from an issue with the minor salivary glands, which are tiny glands scattered throughout the mouth that produce saliva.
How Mucoceles Appear
Oral mucoceles present as soft, movable, and dome-shaped lesions within the oral cavity. Their color can vary, appearing clear, bluish, or pinkish, depending on how deep they are located in the tissue and the amount of fluid they contain. These swellings typically range in size from a few millimeters to about 2 centimeters in diameter, though larger ones can occur.
They are most frequently found on the inner surface of the lower lip, but they can also appear on the floor of the mouth, inner cheeks, or tongue. Larger ones, particularly those on the floor of the mouth (known as ranulas), might interfere with speech, chewing, or swallowing.
Why Mucoceles Form
Oral mucoceles develop when there is a disruption in the flow of saliva from a minor salivary gland. This disruption occurs due to trauma or blockage of a salivary gland duct. When a duct is damaged, saliva can leak into the surrounding connective tissues, forming a cyst-like swelling.
Common traumatic incidents that can lead to mucocele formation include accidentally biting the lip or cheek, constant lip or cheek sucking habits, or irritation from dental appliances. There are two primary types: the extravasation type, which is more common and results from a ruptured salivary gland duct, causing saliva to spill into adjacent tissues. The less common retention type occurs when the duct becomes obstructed, leading to saliva accumulation within the duct.
How Mucoceles Are Treated
Treatment approaches for oral mucoceles vary depending on their size, location, and persistence. Smaller mucoceles often resolve on their own within three to six weeks without any intervention. While simple drainage may provide temporary relief, it often results in recurrence because the underlying issue with the salivary gland duct is not addressed.
Surgical excision, which involves removing the mucocele along with the associated minor salivary gland, is considered the most common and effective treatment method. Other less invasive options include cryotherapy, laser ablation, and intralesional corticosteroid injections.
Understanding the Prognosis
Oral mucoceles are benign, meaning they are non-cancerous and generally do not pose a serious health risk. Many small mucoceles may rupture spontaneously and heal on their own. However, recurrence is possible, especially if the source of trauma persists or if the affected gland is not fully removed during treatment.
If a mucocele does not resolve on its own after several weeks, grows larger, becomes painful, or interferes with chewing or speaking, it is advisable to consult a dentist or doctor. Larger lesions, particularly ranulas on the floor of the mouth, can occasionally cause difficulty with breathing in rare cases, necessitating prompt medical attention.