Triangular Bump Under Tongue: What Could It Be?

Triangular protrusion appears under the tongue?

Hello, I have suddenly noticed a three-dimensional triangular protrusion on the right side of my sublingual taste buds (approximately 0.4 cm high, slightly white).
It is not painful or itchy, but I feel a sense of foreign body presence.
What could this likely be? Should I visit a major hospital or a clinic? I am currently trying to conceive, so I am hesitant to take any medication, which is why I am asking online first.
Thank you!

Yi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/29

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the common issue of reduced saliva production may require a visit to a clinic for diagnosis if it persists without improvement.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/03/29

More Info

The triangular bump you discovered under your tongue could be attributed to several benign conditions, but it is essential to approach this situation with caution, especially since you are currently preparing for pregnancy. The bump's characteristics—being approximately 0.4 cm in height, white in color, and asymptomatic (not painful or itchy)—suggest that it might be a harmless growth, such as a mucous cyst (also known as a ranula), a small salivary gland issue, or possibly a benign tumor like a fibroma.

Mucous cysts are common in the oral cavity and can occur when a salivary gland becomes blocked or damaged, leading to the accumulation of mucus. These cysts are typically painless and can appear as clear or white bumps. They often resolve on their own, but if they persist or cause discomfort, medical evaluation may be warranted.

Another possibility is that the bump could be a normal anatomical variation, such as a prominent taste bud or a normal salivary gland structure. The sublingual area is rich in salivary glands, and variations in their appearance can sometimes be mistaken for pathological conditions.

Given that you are in a delicate stage of preparing for pregnancy, it is understandable that you are hesitant to seek immediate medical intervention or take medications. However, it is crucial to monitor the bump for any changes in size, color, or symptoms. If the bump persists for more than a couple of weeks, becomes painful, or if you notice any other concerning symptoms (such as difficulty swallowing, changes in taste, or swelling), it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Visiting a healthcare provider, such as a dentist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, would be a prudent step. They can perform a thorough examination and possibly imaging studies if necessary to determine the exact nature of the bump. In most cases, a simple clinical examination is sufficient to diagnose the issue.

In summary, while the triangular bump under your tongue may not be a cause for immediate concern, it is essential to keep an eye on it and seek medical advice if it does not resolve or if you experience any new symptoms. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, especially during this important time in your life.

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