Black Spot on Healed Lip Wound: What Does It Mean?

After the mouth ulcer heals, there is a raised black spot?

Hello, two weeks ago I accidentally bit the mucosa of my lower left lip, resulting in a sore.
The wound healed in about a week and was no longer painful.
However, today I inadvertently checked the wound and noticed a small raised spot that is light brown mixed with white in the original location of the sore, and it is not painful.
Could this be a scab, a small blood clot, part of the final healing process, or is it something else I should be concerned about?

wong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/24

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The healing sore in the mouth has a small spot that is light brown mixed with white, which may be a blood clot from the wound healing process.
It is advisable to consult a dentist for further examination.

Reply Date: 2019/08/24

More Info

When you notice a black or dark spot on a healed lip wound, it can be concerning, especially if it appears after the wound has seemingly healed. Based on your description, it sounds like you experienced a minor injury to your lip, which healed over the course of a week. The appearance of a small, raised, brownish-white spot at the site of the previous injury could be attributed to several factors related to the healing process.

1. Scab Formation: After an injury, the body forms a scab as part of the natural healing process. This scab is made up of dried blood and tissue, which can appear dark or black. If the scab has fallen off or is in the process of doing so, it may leave behind a discolored area that can appear raised or different in texture compared to the surrounding skin.

2. Hyperpigmentation: Following the healing of a wound, some individuals may experience hyperpigmentation, where the skin becomes darker in the area of the injury. This is a common response to skin trauma and can take time to fade. The raised appearance you describe could be a result of this process.

3. Granulation Tissue: As wounds heal, granulation tissue forms, which is a new connective tissue and microscopic blood vessels that develop on the surface of a wound. This tissue can sometimes appear raised and may have a different color than the surrounding skin. It is usually a sign that healing is progressing.

4. Infection or Other Complications: While it sounds like your wound is healing well and you are not experiencing pain, it is important to monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. If the spot changes in appearance, becomes painful, or if you notice any unusual symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

5. Other Considerations: In some cases, if a wound is healing improperly or if there is a foreign body present, it could lead to complications. However, given that you have not experienced pain and the wound has healed, this is less likely.

In summary, the small, raised, brownish-white spot you are observing is likely a normal part of the healing process, such as a scab, hyperpigmentation, or granulation tissue. It is essential to keep the area clean and avoid picking at it, as this can lead to further irritation or infection. If you have any concerns or if the spot changes in appearance, it would be best to seek advice from a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They can provide reassurance and, if necessary, treatment options to address any complications.

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