White Bump on the Side of My Tongue: What Could It Be?

There is a granuloma on the upper right side of the tongue?

Hello, doctor.
I noticed a completely white protrusion located on the foliate papillae of my tongue.
It is sharp, and it's difficult to take a photo because it's located far back.
When I touch it, it feels movable, and I'm not sure if it could be a granuloma.
I went to see an ENT specialist, who used tweezers to remove it, and it bled.
When I asked what it was, he vaguely mentioned something about a growth.
Now, the area still has a white ring at the base, and only the sharp part has been removed.
Is this normal, or could it be a wart?

Mimi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/18

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

There are growths on the surface of the tongue that resemble granulation tissue.
After being removed with tweezers, there was bleeding, and the base of the healing area appears white in color.
It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination.

Reply Date: 2019/12/18

More Info

The presence of a white bump on the side of your tongue can be concerning, especially when it is painful and has changed in appearance. Based on your description, it sounds like you may have experienced a condition known as a mucous cyst or a fibroma, which can occur in the oral cavity, particularly on the tongue. These growths can be benign and often result from irritation or trauma to the area, which could be exacerbated by habits such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or even the way you chew your food.

The fact that you mentioned the bump is movable and that it was removed by an ENT specialist suggests that it was likely a benign lesion. The white ring you see at the base after the removal of the pointed part could be a remnant of the cyst or a sign of irritation in the surrounding tissue. It is not uncommon for the area to remain white or inflamed after a procedure, as the tissue heals.
In terms of your concerns about whether this could be something more serious, such as a sexually transmitted infection (like HPV, which can cause warts or "cauliflower-like" growths), it is important to consider other symptoms you may have. If there are no additional symptoms such as persistent pain, difficulty swallowing, or changes in taste, it is less likely to be a serious condition. However, if the white area persists, changes in appearance, or if you develop new symptoms, further evaluation by a healthcare professional is warranted.

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can lead to various oral health issues, including increased wear on teeth, jaw pain, and irritation of the oral mucosa. The constant pressure and friction from grinding can cause the mucous membranes to become inflamed or develop lesions. If you suspect that your grinding habits are contributing to your oral issues, it may be beneficial to consult with a dentist. They can assess your dental health and may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth and reduce the strain on your jaw.

In summary, while the white bump you experienced may not be a cause for alarm, it is essential to monitor the area for any changes. If the white ring persists or if you experience any new symptoms, seeking further evaluation from a healthcare provider is advisable. Maintaining good oral hygiene, managing stress (which can contribute to bruxism), and regular dental check-ups can help prevent similar issues in the future. Always prioritize your health and consult with professionals when in doubt.

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