There are many types of growths and sores that can form in the oral cavity, one of them being mucoceles. What are they, why do they occur and how many people experience one in their lifetime? Read on ahead to learn about the symptoms and how they can be treated effectively.

WHAT ARE THEY?

A mucocele, also known as a mucous cyst, is a clear or bluish bump that can be found on the lips, floor or roof of the mouth, or tongue. They may get in the way of chewing, speaking, swallowing, and in some cases, breathing. Luckily they may dissolve on their own, or might even recur again and again, though they may last several years.

FORMATION AND COMMONALITY

Most mucoceles occur from trauma to the site, either by a blow or blunt object to the site, or an accidental biting of the tissue, around the area of the injury. This type of growth is fairly common, but only a small percentage (less than 1 percent) require any type of surgical intervention or treatment. Mostly the reason for it's removal being unsightly bump on face or teeth repeatedly bursting it. 

SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

The symptoms are usually not painful, especially if the mucocele is small. Usually, they are only a few centimeters in diameter. If it is painful, it would be sensitive only to direct touching. Since it is categorized as a type of cyst, some of them resolve by the fluid being released either by itself or by draining the fluid with a surgical procedure. Mucoceles can, however, recur, so different types of procedures may be tried to remove the lesion. Follow-up appointments will need to be made, to ensure that mucoceles do not reappear, such as when you treat the area more aggressively by removing it entirely, which may require stitches. 

After removal, it is important to keep the oral cavity clean, and use of an antibacterial mouth rinse. We recommend Chlorhexidine Mouthrinses.

Treatment and prevention of mucoceles can-not be handled by most dentists, an oral surgeon is best suited for diagnosis and  definitive treatment. This will ensure patients get the right treatment, and enjoy a lifetime of good dental health.