Discovering an unexpected bump inside your mouth can be unsettling. Many oral bumps are benign and often resolve without intervention. Understanding common causes can alleviate worry and clarify when professional medical advice is beneficial.
Common Harmless Oral Bumps
One frequent type of oral bump is a canker sore, also known as an aphthous ulcer. These are typically painful, shallow ulcers that appear white or yellowish with a distinct red border. Canker sores commonly form on the soft tissues of the mouth, such as the inner lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums, and can be triggered by stress, minor injury, or acidic foods. They usually heal on their own within one to two weeks.
Another common finding is an irritation fibroma, which results from chronic irritation or trauma to oral tissues. Repeated cheek or lip biting, rubbing from a rough tooth, or ill-fitting dentures can cause these benign, scar-like growths. An irritation fibroma presents as a firm, smooth, dome-shaped bump, usually the same color as the surrounding oral lining. These growths are typically solitary and slow-growing.
Mucoceles, or mucous cysts, are soft, fluid-filled bumps that form when a minor salivary gland duct becomes damaged or blocked, causing mucus to accumulate. They commonly appear on the inner surface of the lower lip, but can also be found on the inner cheeks, tongue, or floor of the mouth. Mucoceles are usually painless, ranging in size from a few millimeters to two centimeters, and often appear clear, bluish, or pearly. Many rupture and heal on their own within three to six weeks.
Bony growths called tori are another type of harmless oral bump. These are hard, painless projections of bone covered by normal gum tissue. Torus palatinus occurs on the roof of the mouth, while mandibular tori are found on the inner side of the lower jaw, beneath the tongue. Tori are often asymptomatic, sometimes unnoticed until a dental examination. They are considered normal anatomical variations and do not become cancerous.
Other Types of Oral Bumps
Beyond the most common benign conditions, other types of oral bumps may appear, some of which might warrant professional diagnosis or treatment. Oral papillomas are benign growths caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). These can present as lesions anywhere in the mouth, often characterized by a cauliflower-like texture and a flesh-colored or whitish appearance. While typically painless, larger papillomas might interfere with speaking or eating.
Salivary gland stones are calcified structures that can form within the salivary glands or their ducts, obstructing saliva flow. These stones can lead to pain and swelling in the affected gland, particularly noticeable during or after meals when saliva production increases. While small stones may pass naturally, larger or persistent stones often require medical intervention.
Oral infections can also manifest as bumps or raised patches. Oral thrush, a fungal infection, appears as creamy white, slightly raised patches on the tongue or inner cheeks, sometimes resembling cottage cheese. This infection can cause soreness, a burning sensation, or a loss of taste. It is more prevalent in individuals with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or those using certain medications, and typically requires antifungal treatment.
Although rare, a persistent or unusual oral bump could be a more serious condition, such as oral cancer. Oral cancer can present as a sore, lump, or a red or white patch that does not heal. While many oral bumps are harmless, a professional evaluation is important for any concerning changes.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While many oral bumps are harmless and resolve on their own, professional medical evaluation is appropriate in certain situations. Consult a dentist or doctor if an oral bump persists for more than two weeks without showing signs of healing or improvement.
Any bump that changes in size, shape, or color, or one that begins to bleed, should be examined promptly. Increasing or persistent pain, especially if it interferes with daily activities like eating or speaking, warrants attention.
Difficulty swallowing, speaking, chewing, or any new numbness in the mouth, also require professional assessment. The presence of associated lumps in the neck or jaw area, or any unexplained white or red patches in the mouth, also warrants examination. Seeking timely advice ensures an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan.