Oral Mucosal Growths: When to Seek Dental Care

Oral issues

Hello; I have a cauliflower-like growth on the mucosa of the lower right side of my mouth, which feels rough when I touch it with my tongue.
It has an area of about 2 centimeters and is distributed in a spot-like manner.
I believe this has been present for at least three to six months.
Since it is not painful or itchy, I did not pay attention to its existence.
Recently, after reading an oral health brochure and conducting a self-examination, I discovered the above symptoms, which made me feel panicked, thinking it might be a deadly oral cancer.
I am afraid to tell my family and hesitant to seek medical attention.
I do not chew betel nut, I quit smoking four months ago, and I do not drink alcohol.
Interestingly, during a full-body check-up in August, and after visiting the dentist in September and October, none of them noticed these symptoms.

jacky, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/30

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

A cauliflower-like granular growth has appeared on the right lower oral mucosa, and there is a rough sensation when the tongue touches it, with a dotted distribution, but it is neither painful nor itchy.
This could potentially be oral lichen planus or oral leukoplakia.
Oral lichen planus is characterized by white or grayish papules arranged in a striated, annular, or reticular pattern, and most patients do not experience any symptoms; however, they may feel a burning sensation or discomfort when consuming spicy foods, along with a rough feeling in the affected area.
The cause may be related to psychological or emotional stress.
On the other hand, oral leukoplakia is caused by hyperkeratosis or proliferation of the oral epithelial cells, and severe cases of oral leukoplakia may indicate dysplasia or other malignant changes.
A significant number of patients with leukoplakia have a history of smoking, and it is advisable to quit smoking as soon as possible.
It is recommended to consult a physician for further examination to detect any abnormal lesions early and receive appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2004/11/30

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms in your oral cavity, particularly with the growths on your mucosa. First and foremost, it's important to understand that any persistent changes in the oral mucosa, especially those that last for three months or longer, should not be ignored, even if they are asymptomatic (not causing pain or discomfort).
The growths you describe as resembling "cauliflower" and having a rough texture could potentially be a variety of conditions. One possibility is a benign condition known as a fibroma or papilloma, which can appear as raised lesions in the mouth. However, there are also more serious conditions, including precancerous lesions or oral cancers, that can present similarly.
Given that you have not experienced any pain or discomfort, it may seem less urgent to seek care, but the fact that these lesions have persisted for several months is a significant indicator that you should consult a dental professional. Regular dental check-ups are crucial, but it’s also important to communicate any changes you notice in your oral health, even if they seem minor.
The fact that your previous dental visits did not identify these lesions could be due to a variety of factors, including the location of the lesions or the focus of the examination. Dentists may sometimes overlook subtle changes if they are not specifically looking for them, especially if the patient does not report any symptoms.
You mentioned feeling anxious about the possibility of oral cancer. While it is understandable to feel concerned, it is essential to approach this situation with a clear mind. The best course of action is to schedule an appointment with a dentist or an oral surgeon who can perform a thorough examination of your oral cavity. They may recommend a biopsy of the lesions to determine their nature definitively.
In addition to the physical examination, the dentist may also take a detailed medical history and inquire about any changes in your overall health, lifestyle habits, or any other symptoms you may have experienced. This information can help them make a more accurate diagnosis.
It’s also worth noting that lifestyle factors, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, can significantly impact oral health, but since you have quit smoking and do not drink alcohol, you are already taking positive steps to protect your oral health.
If you are feeling anxious about discussing this with your family, consider writing down your concerns or even bringing a family member with you to the appointment for support. Remember that your health is paramount, and seeking help is a proactive step toward ensuring your well-being.

In summary, do not let fear prevent you from seeking the care you need. Schedule an appointment with a dental professional as soon as possible to have your oral mucosal growths evaluated. Early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential oral health issues, and your dentist will be able to guide you through the next steps based on their findings.

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