Is the unusual lesion in my mouth cancerous?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns.

It seems that you have not clarified whether you are a smoker or if you have any other relevant habits. Additionally, you mentioned that there is no family history of cancer, so there is no need to worry about that. In the picture (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), the white, stony lesion likely developed when the ducts of your salivary glands became blocked. This typically occurs in the floor of the mouth, beneath the tongue.

These lesions can be classified into two types: simple ranulas or plunging ranulas. Based on visual observation, it definitely looks like one of these. Treatment usually requires either simple drainage, as one would do with a cyst (because of the blockage in the salivary ducts), using a dental needle, or surgical removal of the aspirate or cyst content.

You will need to visit a maxillofacial surgeon or dentist in the clinic. If the lesion has become large, is affecting your speech, or causing pain or stress while eating or talking, then surgical removal may be necessary.

As for non-surgical measures, I recommend starting with chlorhexidine mouthwash rinses twice a day, after tooth brushing. You can also increase saliva production by chewing soft candy or trying some natural home remedies to promote saliva flow. However, it is essential to have a clinical check-up at your dentist's office.

Please do not feel anxious about this. If you are hesitant to see a dentist, I encourage you to consult with me again now, as it is best not to leave this issue unattended.

Also, could you please let me know if you have any smoking habits or any other medical history? Is the ranula or cyst causing you any pain or pressure beneath your tongue when you eat or talk? Are you feeling that it is deep? Please let me know.

I hope this clearer explanation helps you understand depression better.

Take care.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Based on the appearance, there is no obvious reason to panic. However, an in-person examination is still important to confirm the diagnosis.

In my opinion, this lesion most closely resembles an extravasation cyst (mucocele). If the swelling feels deeper, firmer, or extends into the floor of the mouth, a ranula is another possibility. These are generally benign cystic lesions arising from the salivary glands.

I recommend scheduling a consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon rather than a general dentist, as they are best equipped to evaluate and manage such lesions.

In the meantime, you can follow these measures.

1. Use a Chlorhexidine mouthwash twice daily.

2. Rinse your mouth with lukewarm salt water five to six times a day for about a week.

3. Avoid repeatedly touching, squeezing, or traumatizing the area.

If the lesion persists, your surgeon may recommend a simple drainage procedure or surgical removal. Based on the visual appearance alone, it does not appear suspicious for cancer or even a precancerous lesion. It looks much more consistent with a benign cystic condition.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.