Cheek Mucosa Issues Near Wisdom Teeth - Dentistry

Share to:

Buccal mucosa issues?


Hello, Dr.
Tseng.
I have a linear protrusion on the buccal mucosa on both sides of my mouth, near the wisdom teeth, along the occlusal surface of the teeth.
There is no significant color difference compared to the normal buccal mucosa.
There are no hard lumps, ulcers, or other discomforts.
However, it has not disappeared, which is quite concerning.
Could you please advise what this might be related to? Thank you for your response.
(I do not smoke, drink alcohol, or chew betel nut.)

A-Q, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/11

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry


There is a linear protrusion on the occlusal surface of the teeth near the wisdom teeth on the buccal mucosa of both sides of the mouth.
There are no hard lumps, ulcers, or other discomforts.
This may be a localized inflammatory response of the oral mucosal epithelial cells, potentially caused by the immune system being disrupted by psychological or emotional factors, leading the body's antibodies to attack its own oral mucosal epithelial cells, resulting in an inflammatory response.
The patient may experience a burning sensation in the oral mucosa or may have no symptoms at all.
It is recommended to consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2006/05/11

More Info


Hello, thank you for your question regarding the issue with the cheek mucosa near your wisdom teeth. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a linear protrusion of the buccal mucosa (the inner lining of your cheeks) adjacent to your wisdom teeth. This protrusion does not appear to have any significant color difference from the surrounding mucosa, nor does it present with any hard lumps, ulcers, or discomfort.

There are several potential explanations for the appearance of this linear protrusion. One possibility is that it could be a result of irritation or friction caused by the wisdom teeth, especially if they are partially erupted or misaligned. The constant contact between the teeth and the mucosa can lead to localized inflammation or hyperplasia (an increase in the number of cells), which may manifest as a protruding line.

Another possibility is that this could be a benign condition known as a fibroma, which is a non-cancerous growth that can develop in response to chronic irritation. These growths are typically firm and painless, and they can occur anywhere in the oral cavity, including the buccal mucosa. Given that you have not experienced any pain or discomfort, this is a less likely scenario, but it is still worth considering.

Additionally, the presence of a linear protrusion could also be related to a condition known as linea alba, which is a common finding in the oral cavity. Linea alba appears as a white line on the buccal mucosa and is often associated with chronic irritation from biting or grinding the teeth. It is generally harmless and does not require treatment unless it becomes symptomatic.

Since you mentioned that you do not consume tobacco, alcohol, or betel nut, this reduces the likelihood of certain oral lesions that are often associated with these substances. However, it is still important to maintain good oral hygiene and monitor the area for any changes. If the protrusion persists or if you notice any new symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or changes in color, it would be advisable to consult with a dentist or an oral health specialist for a thorough examination.

In summary, while the linear protrusion of the buccal mucosa near your wisdom teeth may be benign and related to irritation, it is always best to have any persistent oral changes evaluated by a healthcare professional. They can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend appropriate management if necessary. Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining oral health and addressing any concerns that may arise. Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope this information helps alleviate your concerns.

Similar Q&A

White Bumps Near Wisdom Teeth: Should You Be Concerned?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about some white raised spots on the mucosa near the molar area on both sides of my cheeks. Should I be concerned? Here are the photo links (Dropbox): https://www.dropbox.com/s/e9cg03fqub7rhh5/IMG-8183.JPG?dl=0 and https://www.dropbox.com/s/77q1f...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
There are some white protrusions on the buccal mucosa near the wisdom teeth area, which are caused by an inflammatory reaction due to friction and irritation of the oral mucosa during chewing. Typically, this condition is normal and will heal within one to two weeks. If it has no...

[Read More] White Bumps Near Wisdom Teeth: Should You Be Concerned?


Swollen Oral Mucosa: Should You See a Dentist for Wisdom Tooth Issues?

A couple of days ago, I went to a night market and had a surf and turf hot pot. After sleeping for a night, I noticed a small sore on my mucosa that has swollen and turned white. I just checked, and it seems to be near where I had a wisdom tooth grow a few months ago. Should I se...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
The above situation may be due to the wisdom tooth not fully erupting, with some gum tissue still covering the tooth. This, combined with the accumulation of bacteria or food debris in the gingival sulcus, can lead to pericoronitis around the crown. It is advisable to seek furthe...

[Read More] Swollen Oral Mucosa: Should You See a Dentist for Wisdom Tooth Issues?


Understanding Oral Mucosa: White Spots Behind Wisdom Teeth

I have white spots in my mouth behind the last wisdom tooth. The wisdom tooth often gets inflamed, and sometimes I get mouth ulcers.


Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
The above condition may be caused by inflammation due to irritation of the oral mucosal epithelium. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment, and to consider the extraction of wisdom teeth.

[Read More] Understanding Oral Mucosa: White Spots Behind Wisdom Teeth


Understanding Oral Mucosal Changes After Braces and Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Hello, after I got braces, my mouth has been sore, but once it healed, there are large white patches. What could this be? Also, after having my wisdom teeth removed, there was a small painful and swollen area on the right side of my face, and now, a month later, it feels like a l...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
1. After getting braces, mouth sores may occur, possibly due to the areas where teeth are missing or where there is dental enamel loss. The buccal mucosa may shift inward, causing ulcers on the buccal mucosa when biting down with the new braces. It is recommended to consult a den...

[Read More] Understanding Oral Mucosal Changes After Braces and Wisdom Tooth Extraction


Related FAQ

Lip Mucosa

(Dentistry)

Facial Swelling

(Dentistry)

Oral Mucosa

(Otolaryngology)

Oral Blister

(Dentistry)

Post-Wisdom Tooth Surgery

(Dentistry)

Mouth Corner

(Dermatology)

Gum Ulcer

(Dentistry)

Tmj

(Dentistry)

Oral Cavity

(Family Medicine)

Tongue

(Dentistry)