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Oral Cyst Removal in Richmond, TX
Noticed a bump or lump inside your mouth? Oral cysts like mucoceles and fibromas are common, treatable conditions. Dr. Jasmine Naderi and Dr. Sonny Naderi at Best Dental provide expert diagnosis and gentle removal of oral soft tissue growths—restoring your comfort and peace of mind.
Schedule a ConsultationWhat Are Oral Cysts and Soft Tissue Growths?
Oral cysts and soft tissue growths are among the most common findings in the mouth. They can appear on the lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, or floor of the mouth—sometimes overnight. While the sudden appearance of a bump can be alarming, the vast majority of oral growths are benign (non-cancerous) and highly treatable. The two most frequently encountered are mucoceles and fibromas.
These growths develop for different reasons—mucoceles typically form from blocked or ruptured salivary gland ducts, while fibromas result from localized scar tissue in response to chronic irritation. Neither is contagious, and both respond well to professional removal. Left untreated, however, they can grow larger, interfere with eating or speaking, and in rare cases become a source of recurring discomfort or secondary infection.
At Best Dental in Richmond, TX, Dr. Jasmine Naderi and Dr. Sonny Naderi are experienced in evaluating and removing oral soft tissue growths quickly and comfortably. If you've noticed a lump, bump, or swelling inside your mouth that has persisted for more than two weeks, it's worth having it examined.
Common Types of Oral Growths We Treat
- Mucoceles: Fluid-filled cysts from blocked salivary gland ducts
- Fibromas: Firm, scar-like growths from chronic irritation or trauma
- Retention cysts: Salivary gland blockages in the floor of the mouth (ranulas)
- Epulis: Gum tissue overgrowths near teeth
- Papillomas: Wart-like growths on oral tissues
Mucoceles & Fibromas: Understanding Each Condition
Most Common
Mucoceles (Mucous Cysts)
A mucocele is a fluid-filled cyst that forms when a minor salivary gland duct becomes damaged, blocked, or ruptured. Saliva leaks into the surrounding tissue and becomes walled off, forming a smooth, dome-shaped blister. They are soft, movable, and typically painless—though they can feel uncomfortable due to their size or location.
Where they appear: Most commonly on the inner lower lip, but also on the cheek lining, floor of the mouth, and rarely on the tongue or palate.
What they look like: A round, bluish-translucent or pearly-white bump ranging from a few millimeters to over a centimeter. The color comes from the fluid inside showing through the thin overlying tissue.
Why they form:
- Lip biting or cheek biting (the most common cause)
- Trauma from a blow to the mouth
- Accidentally biting yourself while eating
- Piercings that damage salivary ducts
- Chronic irritation from a sharp tooth edge or dental appliance
Do they go away on their own? Small mucoceles occasionally rupture and drain on their own, temporarily relieving symptoms—but they almost always refill and return. Without professional removal of the associated gland tissue, recurrence is very common.
Common Finding
Fibromas (Oral Fibromas)
An oral fibroma is a firm, benign overgrowth of connective tissue (fibrous scar tissue) that develops in response to repeated injury or chronic irritation. Unlike mucoceles, fibromas are solid rather than fluid-filled and do not fluctuate in size—they grow slowly and persistently over time.
Where they appear: The most common site is the inner cheek (buccal mucosa) along the biting plane, but they also appear on the gums, lips, tongue, and palate.
What they look like: A smooth, firm, dome-shaped or flat growth that closely matches the surrounding tissue color—typically pink or slightly paler. They feel rubbery to the touch and don't blanch when pressed.
Why they form:
- Chronic cheek or lip biting
- Rubbing from ill-fitting dentures or partials
- Irritation from a sharp or broken tooth
- Repeated trauma from orthodontic appliances
- Ongoing friction from a dental bridge or crown edge
Do they go away on their own? No. Unlike mucoceles, fibromas are scar tissue and will not resolve without surgical removal. However, they are almost always benign and do not become cancerous.
Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
Most mucoceles and fibromas are painless in their early stages—many patients discover them accidentally while running their tongue over the inside of the mouth. However, certain symptoms warrant prompt evaluation:
Typical Mucocele Symptoms
- Soft, smooth bump on the inner lip, cheek, or floor of the mouth
- Bluish, clear, or white translucent appearance
- Painless or mildly uncomfortable depending on size and location
- Bump that ruptures, drains a clear or slightly sticky fluid, then returns
- Interference with eating, speaking, or closing the mouth naturally
- Gradual increase in size over days to weeks
Typical Fibroma Symptoms
- Firm, rubbery bump on the cheek, gum, or lip
- Normal pink or slightly pale tissue color
- Smooth surface that blends with surrounding tissue
- Slow, persistent growth over months
- Tenderness if repeatedly bitten or irritated
- Getting in the way when biting or chewing
See a Dentist Promptly If You Notice:
- Any oral lump that has been present for more than two weeks
- A growth that is rapidly increasing in size
- An ulcerated (open sore) surface on the growth that won't heal
- A hard, fixed growth that does not move when touched
- Numbness or tingling in the surrounding tissue
- Red or white patches alongside the growth
- Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or opening your mouth
While mucoceles and fibromas are almost always benign, oral cancer can occasionally present as a lump or ulcer in the mouth. Any persistent oral growth should be evaluated by a dental professional to rule out more serious conditions.
Diagnosis: What to Expect at Your Appointment
Diagnosing an oral cyst or soft tissue growth is typically straightforward and does not require extensive testing. At Best Dental, Dr. Naderi will begin with a thorough clinical examination:
1
Visual & Physical Examination
Dr. Naderi carefully inspects the growth under good lighting, noting its size, color, texture, location, and surface characteristics. She gently palpates (feels) the lesion to assess whether it is soft and fluid-filled (suggesting a mucocele) or firm and solid (suggesting a fibroma or other growth). Most diagnoses can be made at this stage.
2
Medical History Review
Dr. Naderi will ask about when you first noticed the growth, whether it has changed in size, whether it has ever ruptured, any history of trauma or biting in the area, and any other symptoms you've experienced. This history helps distinguish between different types of growths and guides treatment decisions.
3
Imaging If Needed
For growths near the jaw or that appear to involve deeper structures, dental X-rays or cone beam CT imaging may be used to assess whether underlying bone is involved. This is uncommon for typical mucoceles and fibromas but may be warranted for larger or unusual presentations.
4
Biopsy Recommendation
For any growth with unusual features—irregular surface, rapid growth, ulceration, or an atypical appearance—Dr. Naderi may recommend excisional biopsy (removing the growth and sending it to a pathology lab). This is the only definitive way to confirm a diagnosis and rule out malignancy. Most routine mucocele and fibroma removals are sent for pathology as standard practice.
Treatment & Surgical Removal
The definitive treatment for both mucoceles and fibromas is surgical removal. While the approach differs slightly between the two, both are outpatient procedures completed in a single visit at Best Dental with local anesthesia.
Mucocele Removal
Removing a mucocele requires more than simply draining the fluid—the associated minor salivary gland must also be removed to prevent the cyst from returning. The procedure involves:
Mucocele Removal Procedure
- Local anesthesia: The area is numbed completely—you will feel pressure but no pain
- Incision: A small incision is made around the base of the mucocele
- Dissection: The cyst and its associated salivary gland are carefully separated from surrounding tissue
- Complete excision: The entire unit—cyst wall and gland—is removed to minimize recurrence risk
- Closure: The wound is closed with dissolvable sutures
- Pathology: Tissue is sent to a lab for confirmation of diagnosis
- Duration: Typically 20-40 minutes depending on size and location
Fibroma Removal
Fibroma removal (excision) is a straightforward procedure involving complete removal of the fibrous tissue growth along with a small margin of normal tissue to reduce recurrence:
Fibroma Removal Procedure
- Local anesthesia: The area is thoroughly numbed before any incision
- Excision: The fibroma is removed with an elliptical incision around its base, including a small margin of healthy tissue
- Hemostasis: Any minor bleeding is controlled
- Closure: Sutures are placed—usually dissolvable, eliminating the need for removal
- Pathology: Tissue is sent for biopsy confirmation
- Duration: Typically 15-30 minutes
- Source removal: If the fibroma was caused by an ill-fitting appliance or sharp tooth edge, that source of irritation must be addressed to prevent recurrence
Pricing
Best Dental charges $500 for mucocele and fibroma removal, which includes the surgical excision and submission of tissue to pathology for biopsy confirmation. Many dental insurance plans cover oral surgery procedures—our billing team will verify your benefits before treatment. Flexible payment options are also available for patients without coverage. Learn more about our full range of oral surgery services.
Sedation Options
Both procedures are minor and typically well tolerated with local anesthesia alone. However, for patients who experience dental anxiety, sedation dentistry options are available to ensure a comfortable, stress-free experience. Discuss your preferences with Dr. Naderi during your consultation.
What About Laser Removal?
Laser excision is an alternative to traditional scalpel removal for some oral soft tissue growths. Benefits include reduced bleeding during the procedure, less postoperative swelling, and no sutures required in some cases. Ask Dr. Naderi whether laser removal is appropriate for your specific growth.
Recovery After Oral Cyst Removal
Recovery from mucocele or fibroma removal is generally quick and straightforward. Most patients return to normal daily activities the same day. Here's what to expect:
First 24 Hours
- Some swelling, tenderness, and mild bleeding at the surgical site is normal
- Keep gauze over the site and apply gentle pressure if bleeding continues
- Eat soft foods—yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, smoothies
- Avoid hot foods and beverages that can increase bleeding
- Do not rinse vigorously or spit forcefully
- Take over-the-counter pain relief (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) as directed
Days 2-7
- Swelling typically peaks at 48-72 hours then gradually subsides
- Rinse gently with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 8 oz water) 2-3 times daily
- Continue soft diet until sutures dissolve and area feels comfortable
- Avoid poking or pressing on the healing site with your tongue
- Maintain normal oral hygiene, brushing carefully around the surgical area
Full Healing
Soft tissue in the mouth heals faster than most other areas of the body due to the rich blood supply and healing properties of saliva. Most patients experience complete healing within 2-3 weeks. Dissolvable sutures typically dissolve within 7-14 days on their own.
Contact Us If You Experience:
- Heavy bleeding that doesn't stop with gentle pressure after 20-30 minutes
- Increasing pain after the third day rather than improving
- Swelling that spreads to the jaw, neck, or face
- Fever above 100.4°F—may indicate infection
- Foul taste or odor from the surgical site
- Sutures that fall out earlier than expected
Recurrence
When performed correctly—removing the entire cyst wall and associated gland for mucoceles, or including adequate tissue margins for fibromas—recurrence rates are low. However, if the underlying cause of irritation (a sharp tooth, ill-fitting denture, or biting habit) is not addressed, a new growth can develop at or near the same location. Dr. Naderi will discuss any contributing factors and how to address them during your appointment.
When to See a Dentist in Richmond, TX
Fort Bend County residents who notice any oral lump, bump, or persistent sore should have it evaluated without delay. While mucoceles and fibromas are benign, not every oral growth is—and early diagnosis always leads to better outcomes.
Schedule an appointment at Best Dental if:
Reasons to Seek Evaluation
- A bump or lump inside the mouth has been present for more than 2 weeks
- A growth that appeared to drain has returned
- A growth is interfering with eating, speaking, or oral comfort
- You have a growth that is growing larger over time
- You are unsure whether a growth is normal and want peace of mind
- You have a history of oral lesions and have noticed a new growth
- Any oral sore or ulcer that has not healed within 2 weeks
Best Dental serves patients throughout Richmond, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Rosenberg, Pecan Grove, Greatwood, Sienna, and surrounding Fort Bend County communities. Same-day consultations are available for patients concerned about an oral growth. Schedule a comprehensive exam to have any oral tissue concern properly evaluated.
The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening
During every comprehensive exam at Best Dental, Dr. Naderi performs a thorough oral cancer screening—examining the lips, cheeks, tongue, floor of the mouth, palate, and throat for any abnormal tissue changes. Oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early. If you haven't had a recent dental cleaning and exam, now is an excellent time to schedule one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is oral cyst removal painful?
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you will be completely numb during removal. You may feel pressure and movement but no pain. After the anesthesia wears off, mild soreness is normal for a few days and is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How much does mucocele or fibroma removal cost?
Best Dental charges $500 for mucocele and fibroma removal, which includes the surgical excision and pathology submission. Many dental insurance plans cover oral surgery and biopsy procedures—our billing team will verify your benefits before treatment. Flexible financing options are also available for patients without coverage.
Can I pop or drain a mucocele at home?
No. Attempting to drain a mucocele at home is strongly discouraged. Without removing the associated salivary gland, the cyst will almost certainly refill. Home drainage also introduces a significant risk of infection. Professional removal is safe, quick, and results in far better long-term outcomes.
How long does it take to heal after removal?
The mouth heals quickly. Most patients feel comfortable within 3-5 days and experience full healing within 2-3 weeks. Dissolvable sutures typically dissolve on their own within 7-14 days—no follow-up visit is needed solely for suture removal.
Can mucoceles and fibromas come back?
Recurrence is possible but uncommon when the growth is fully excised. The most important factor in preventing recurrence is addressing the underlying cause—whether that's a biting habit, an ill-fitting denture, a sharp tooth edge, or another source of chronic irritation. Dr. Naderi will identify and address contributing factors during your appointment.
Do I need a referral to have an oral growth removed?
No referral is needed. Best Dental handles minor oral surgery including soft tissue excisions in-house. Simply call to schedule a consultation—Dr. Naderi will evaluate the growth and discuss removal at the same appointment in most cases.
Is the removed tissue tested for cancer?
Yes. As standard practice, removed oral tissue is submitted to a pathology laboratory for microscopic analysis. This confirms the diagnosis and definitively rules out any malignant or pre-malignant changes. Results are typically available within 5-7 business days and will be reviewed with you.
📋 Key Takeaways About Oral Cyst Removal
- Mucoceles are fluid-filled cysts from blocked salivary ducts—most common on the inner lip
- Fibromas are firm scar-tissue growths from chronic irritation—most common on the cheek
- Both are almost always benign but should be professionally evaluated
- Mucoceles rarely resolve on their own—they refill and return without proper removal
- Fibromas never resolve on their own and require surgical excision
- Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia in a single office visit
- Removed tissue is sent to pathology to confirm diagnosis and rule out cancer
- Recovery is typically 2-3 weeks with minimal discomfort
- Addressing the underlying irritation source prevents recurrence
- Any oral growth present for more than 2 weeks deserves professional evaluation
Noticed a Bump in Your Mouth? Don't Wait.
Most oral growths are benign and easily treated—but early evaluation is always the right call. Dr. Jasmine Naderi and Dr. Sonny Naderi at Best Dental provide expert diagnosis and gentle, same-visit removal of mucoceles, fibromas, and other oral soft tissue growths. Serving Richmond, Sugar Land, Missouri City, and all of Fort Bend County. Call (281) 215-3065 or book your consultation online today.
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