If you have a small bump or swelling on your lips or its inner surface, you may be wondering what it could be. Is it a temporary sore, an allergic reaction, or a mucocele that needs surgery? The discovery of lumps on the lips can be concerning for many.
In this article, we’ll discuss conditions that present as lumps on the lips, and if they need surgical removals. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or simply seeking clarity on the best course of action, learning more about this condition can help you make better choices for your oral health.
What are those lumps on your lips?
The appearance of bumps on the lips can be a sign of various acute and chronic conditions. Here are some examples of what they could be:
- Allergic reactions: Swelling or bumps caused by allergic reactions to foods, cosmetics, or other substances. Often accompanied by itching, redness, or other signs of inflammation.
- Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections of the lips can be painful and swollen. Bumps may be accompanied by redness, warmth, and pus drainage.
- Canker sores or cold sores: Shallow, painful ulcers that develop on the lips, cheeks, or tongue. Usually triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or certain foods.
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease: A viral infection accompanied by fever, sore throat, and a characteristic rash of small, red bumps or blisters on the lips, hands, feet, and inside the mouth. Common in children but can also affect adults.
- Oral mucoceles: Small, fluid-filled bumps on the inner surface of the lips. They may be translucent or bluish in colour and have a soft, fluctuant texture.
While most lip bumps above can be treated with prescription medication, conditions like oral mucoceles may need surgical removal. Some medications may help alleviate symptoms such as pain or inflammation associated with mucoceles, but they do not address the underlying cause of the condition, which is a blocked or damaged salivary gland duct.
Causes of mucocele
Mucoceles are benign cystic lesions that develop due to a blocked or damaged salivary gland duct. These cysts manifest as small, painless bumps or sacs filled with clear fluid. They can occur on the lips’ inner surface, the mouth’s base, or the tongue’s underside.
When a salivary gland duct becomes blocked or damaged, saliva accumulates beneath the mucosal surface. This blockage can occur due to trauma to the mouth, such as lip biting, lip sucking, or repetitive irritation from dental appliances.
Moreover, some individuals may be predisposed to developing mucoceles due to their anatomy or genetic factors.
Symptoms of mucocele
The symptoms of mucoceles can vary according to the extent and location of the cyst. Common signs include:
- Small, fluid-filled sacs on the lips or inside the mouth
- A bluish or translucent appearance of the cyst
- Pain or discomfort, especially when accidentally bitten or irritated
- Swelling or enlargement of the affected area
Why you should remove a mucocele
1. Pain and discomfort: Mucoceles can sometimes cause pain or discomfort, especially if they are accidentally bitten, irritated, or infected. Removing the cyst can alleviate these symptoms and improve your comfort and quality of life.
2. Difficulty eating and speaking: Large or recurrent mucoceles can interfere with your ability to eat, speak, or perform daily activities comfortably. By removing the lumps, you can restore normal function to your mouth and alleviate any difficulties associated with chewing, swallowing, or articulating speech.
3. Cosmetic Concerns: Depending on their size and location, mucoceles may affect the appearance of your lips or the inside of your mouth. If the lumps are prominent or cause noticeable swelling, you may feel self-conscious about your appearance. Surgical removal can address these cosmetic concerns and restore a more aesthetically pleasing appearance to your lips.
4. Prevention of complications: While oral mucoceles are typically benign, there is a risk of complications if left untreated. For example, recurrent trauma to the cyst can lead to infection, inflammation, or scar tissue formation. Mucocele treatment can reduce the risk of complications and ensure optimal oral health.
5. Peace of Mind: Removing the lumps on your lips can provide peace of mind and reassurance that you have addressed any potential concerns with your oral health.
When to see a doctor?
Some mucoceles may be harmless. However, it is advisable to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent or recurrent lumps on the lips or inside the mouth
- Pain, discomfort, or difficulty eating or speaking
- Rapid enlargement or changes in the appearance of the cyst
- Signs of infection, such as inflammation or pus drainage from the affected area
Mucocele removal in Singapore
Mucoceles can develop due to blocked or damaged salivary gland ducts. While many mucoceles resolve independently without treatment, larger or symptomatic cysts may require intervention. If you’re unsure whether to remove the lumps on your lips, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
At Specialist Oral Surgeons, you can expect complete care and personalised treatment plans designed to address oral mucoceles and achieve optimal outcomes. From initial evaluation and diagnosis to surgical removal and postoperative follow-up, we are equipped to support you through every step of the treatment process with professionalism and compassion.
Schedule a consultation with us to know more about mucocele treatment and its cost.
