Red Area with White Raised Bump on Inner Cheek - Should I Be Concerned?

[Alan]

Hi all, not sure if this is the right place to post, but I’m looking for some advice.I’ve noticed a red area with a white raised bump on the right side of my inner cheek. It’s been there for a day or two, and I haven’t had any pain or discomfort. It doesn’t really seem like a canker sore.

Has anyone experienced something like this before? I’m wondering if it’s something minor, or should I be concerned? Does this usually go away on its own, or is it something I should get checked out?

Appreciate any help or thoughts on this!

 

[Dr M]

Could be a retention cyst or just an area where you experienced some trauma. I do not think you should worry about this. Usually it should clear up within 2 weeks. Just keep an eye on the area. If it enlarges and becomes more painful, then you can consider going to your dentist for a proper consultation.

 

[Alan]

Could be a retention cyst or just an area where you experienced some trauma. I do not think you should worry about this. Usually it should clear up within 2 weeks. Just keep an eye on the area. If it enlarges and becomes more painful, then you can consider going to your dentist for a proper consultation.

Thank you, Dr. M. I just wanted to follow up with something I’ve noticed that’s been there for a long time: there's an area of gum around one of my lower teeth that’s been thickened for years now. It’s not painful or anything, but it feels firmer or denser than the surrounding gum in my mouth.

I haven’t seen a dentist in a while due to mental health reasons. I don’t smoke or drink, and I do plan to see a dentist asap for a clean up.

Since it’s been like this for so long without any symptoms, I’m wondering if it could be a cause for concern or if it’s likely harmless?

 

[Dr M]

The thickening of the gingiva could be due to the canine and its root being positioned differently than the surrounding teeth, leading to a difference of the appearance of the gingiva. There could also be some subgingival calculus in the area, leading to a swelling of the gingiva due to chronic inflammation.

 

[Alan]

The thickening of the gingiva could be due to the canine and its root being positioned differently than the surrounding teeth, leading to a difference of the appearance of the gingiva. There could also be some subgingival calculus in the area, leading to a swelling of the gingiva due to chronic inflammation.

Thanks again, Dr. M. So just to confirm — based on what you described, it doesn’t sound like anything serious?

 

[Dr M]

Yes, does not sound like you need to be worried at this stage.