Ever noticed a small lump or bump in your mouth? The most common reactions to this are either absolute paranoia or complete nonchalance. Well, both are fine as long as you are aware of the scientific explanation of this occurrence.
Usually, these are harmless cysts that develop in the gums, inner mouth or tongue. In the medical world, it is called a mucocele. There are a variety of reasons why this occurs. As we proceed, you will see what causes this condition, its symptoms and what comprises of a mucocele treatment.
Causes
So what causes a mucocele? It centres on your salivary gland which makes saliva. Your saliva is secreted through small ducts that are connected to your salivary gland. When one of these ducts become blocked or damaged, it results in a lump or a mucocele. People who have a habit of biting or sucking their lower lip are more likely to get a mucocele. Another common reason the duct gets affected is if you get hit in the face or have a head-on collision with someone.
In the event of a damaged duct, there is mucus that seeps out eventually leading to a cyst like swelling in your mouth. This process repeats itself when a duct is blocked as well.
Symptoms
A mucocele is a rather visible condition and that by itself is the biggest symptom. But if we delve further, mucoceles have certain distinct characteristics – they are painless and moveable. They are soft, round, and dome shaped. Mucoceles are 2-10 millimeters in diameter and they can be bluish or pearly in color. They usually have a semi-clear surface.
Mucocele Treatment
Mucoceles usually go away without treatment but if they don’t, then there are various ways to treat this condition. One way of treating this condition is by removing the gland. The dentist or the doctor will use a scalpel or laser to remove the salivary gland. He or she will disinfect the area, put a stitch through the mucocele and tie a knot. The next step is to gently remove the saliva and to remove the stitch after a week.
Another method of mucocele treatment involves helping a new duct to form. The technique, called marsupialization, helps saliva leave the salivary gland.
There are various other forms of treatment to deal with mucocele. Consult with our dentists to know more about mucocele treatment.
