Los Angeles, CA
A 19-year-old female asked:
I've had small bumps reoccur in my mouth and they're slightly painful. they occur on my inner cheeks, inside upper/lower lip, and on gums sometimes. what do i do?
4 doctor answers • 9 doctors weighed in

Dr. Franklin Allenanswered
Dentistry 14 years experience
Apthous ulcers: Usually white in center and red around edges. We don't know for certain what causes it. Stress, foods, trauma, viruses.....Some possibilities. No real cure either. A dentist can help make it more comfortable. If you have other symptoms to go along with it, swollen lymph nodes, genitourinary, eyes... See an md it could be a long list of things.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Barry Levinanswered
Periodontics 28 years experience
Possible virus: This could be a sign of a virus like herpes simplex 1 ( not an std). It may also be an allergic reaction to ingredients like tartar-control agents in toothpaste. It's best to see your dentist for evaluation.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Herbert Mendelsonanswered
28 years experience
Salivary glands: Small independent salivary glands can occasionally get blocked or fill quicker than they can release their contents. These small randomly located glands are referred to as ectopic salivary glands.
They can become active when you are hungry or eating certain things that are salty or sour.
They are not dangerous or anything to be concerned about, but if they cause you discomfort, tell your dentist.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Bradley Dykstraanswered
44 years experience
Possible herpes: If only on the inside of cheeks and lips, it could be blocked salivary glands but unlikely. Have you been exposed to herpes?
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Mar 31, 2020
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