Painful Spot on Roof of Mouth Help?

[athrun]

Hi I’m reaching out for some help regarding a painful patch on the roof of my mouth / upper left gum area (photo attached – taken with a mirror to get a better view). I recently noticed a white and red patch near the upper left side of my mouth, kind of where the gum meets the roof. It’s painful, especially when I eat or touch it with my tongue. It’s been there for a couple of days. I’m not sure if it’s something like a canker sore, irritation from food, an infection, or something more serious. I haven’t had this happen in that spot before, so I’m a bit worried. Thanks for any input!

 

[Dr M]

It looks trauma related, but not like something serious. Should dissappear within 7 to 10 days. Perhaps consider going for a cleaning, so that possible subgingival calculus in the area can be removed as well.

 

[athrun]

It looks trauma related, but not like something serious. Should dissappear within 7 to 10 days. Perhaps consider going for a cleaning, so that possible subgingival calculus in the area can be removed as well.

Thanks so much, Dr. M. That’s really reassuring to hear. I’ll keep an eye on it and look into getting a cleaning soon.

 

[Naman Dentist]

Hi I’m reaching out for some help regarding a painful patch on the roof of my mouth / upper left gum area (photo attached – taken with a mirror to get a better view). I recently noticed a white and red patch near the upper left side of my mouth, kind of where the gum meets the roof. It’s painful, especially when I eat or touch it with my tongue. It’s been there for a couple of days. I’m not sure if it’s something like a canker sore, irritation from food, an infection, or something more serious. I haven’t had this happen in that spot before, so I’m a bit worried. Thanks for any input!

As a dentist, I’d say it sounds like a traumatic or aphthous ulcer, which usually heals within 1-2 weeks. If it doesn’t improve or gets worse, definitely get it checked. Meanwhile, avoid irritants and keep the area clean with gentle rinses.

 

[athrun]

It looks trauma related, but not like something serious. Should dissappear within 7 to 10 days. Perhaps consider going for a cleaning, so that possible subgingival calculus in the area can be removed as well.

Hi again Dr. M,
The painful patch seemed to be healing slightly, but now I’ve noticed the gum in that area has become quite swollen, with mild discomfort and pain. This just started recently. Is this okay?

 

[Dr M]

It looks fine. I would still recommend going for a proper scaling, just to make sure there is not any plaque trapped below the gum line, which could lead to continued inflammation and swelling.
But I would not be too concerned.

 

[bellissimadental]

Hey, that sore looks painful, and I totally get why you’re concerned. From what you described, it sounds like it could be a canker sore or irritation from food, maybe even something like a mild infection. That area isn't a super common spot, though, so if it doesn't start healing in a few days or gets worse, definitely have a dentist or doctor check it out. In the meantime, salt water rinses and avoiding spicy or acidic stuff might help. Hope it clears up soon.