Growth Inside Mouth After Biting: Treatment Approach
For a growth that developed after biting the inside of your mouth, the most appropriate treatment is surgical excision (removal) of the lesion, which both confirms the diagnosis and provides definitive treatment. 1
Understanding the Lesion
This growth is most likely a traumatic fibroma (also called "biting fibroma" or "irritation fibroma"), which is a benign reactive lesion that commonly develops at sites of chronic trauma from tooth biting. 1
Key Characteristics:
- Appearance: Typically presents as a small, smooth, mucosa-colored papule that is usually asymptomatic 1
- Common locations: Most frequently occurs on the buccal mucosa (inside cheek), followed by tongue, lip, hard palate, or gingiva 1
- Nature: This is a benign (non-cancerous) reactive lesion caused by chronic irritation 1
Recommended Treatment Algorithm
Primary Treatment: Excisional Biopsy
Excision is the treatment of choice for a biting fibroma, serving dual purposes: 1
- Removes the lesion completely
- Provides tissue for pathological examination to confirm diagnosis and rule out other conditions
Why Biopsy is Essential:
The clinical differential diagnosis includes various benign conditions and less common malignant neoplasms, making tissue diagnosis important even when the lesion appears benign. 1
Preventing Recurrence
Resolution of chronic inflammation is necessary to prevent recurrence. 1 This requires:
Eliminate the Source of Trauma:
- Address biting habits: If you have a habitual biting pattern, this must be corrected 2
- Evaluate dental occlusion: Ensure teeth are properly aligned and not causing inadvertent trauma 3
- Check for ill-fitting dental prostheses: Any dentures or dental appliances should fit properly 3, 4
For Habitual Biting:
If chronic biting is the underlying cause, consider using a soft mouth guard to prevent continued trauma while the habit is addressed. 2
When to Seek Immediate Care
Seek urgent evaluation if you develop:
- Extensive swelling beyond the localized growth 5
- Signs of infection (increasing pain, redness, warmth, fever) 5
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Rapid growth or change in the lesion's appearance
Important Caveats
Infection Risk from Bite Wounds:
While traumatic fibromas themselves are benign, the initial bite injury carries infection risk. Human bite wounds can become infected with oral flora including streptococci, staphylococci, and anaerobes. 5, 6, 7
If signs of infection develop (not just the growth itself, but surrounding redness, warmth, purulent drainage):
- Prophylactic antibiotics should be given early, regardless of wound appearance 5
- Amoxicillin-clavulanate is the recommended oral antibiotic for human bite wounds 5
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:
- Use a soft toothbrush with mild fluoride toothpaste twice daily 3
- Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash to prevent secondary infection 3
- Avoid irritating foods (hot, spicy, acidic) that could further traumatize the area 3, 4
Regular Dental Follow-up:
Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection and management of oral lesions and to address any contributing factors. 3