An oral fibroma is a common, non-cancerous growth that develops on the oral mucosa, the soft tissue lining the inside of the mouth. This lesion is composed of dense fibrous connective tissue, often referred to as an irritation or traumatic fibroma. While the growth is benign, treatment is sought because the lump can cause discomfort, interfere with speaking or chewing, or create aesthetic concern. Definitive treatment involves surgical removal, which is a straightforward outpatient procedure, followed by steps to prevent future recurrence.
Understanding the Oral Fibroma
This common oral mass develops as a direct reaction to persistent irritation or trauma within the mouth. The growth is generally a firm, smooth, and dome-shaped nodule that matches the normal color of the surrounding tissue. Oral fibromas most frequently appear along the bite line of the inner cheek, but they can also be found on the lips, gums, or the side of the tongue. They usually grow slowly and rarely exceed one centimeter in diameter.
Although the clinical appearance is often characteristic, professional evaluation is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Because other, more serious conditions can mimic the look of an oral fibroma, the removed tissue is routinely sent for histopathological examination. This biopsy confirms the benign nature of the lesion, ruling out other growths like lipomas, mucoceles, or malignant entities that require different treatment.
Surgical Removal Options
Surgical excision remains the standard method for treating an oral fibroma. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, administered as an injection to numb the area around the lesion. The primary goal of the operation is the complete removal of the fibroma, including its base or pedicle, to prevent recurrence.
Two main techniques are used for removal: conventional scalpel excision and laser ablation. Scalpel excision involves carefully cutting out the lesion with a margin of healthy tissue, and the surgical site is often closed with dissolvable sutures. Laser removal is a minimally invasive alternative that uses a focused beam of light to vaporize the tissue. This technique results in less bleeding because the laser cauterizes the blood vessels as it cuts, and it may not require sutures.
Immediate Post-Procedure Care
The first 24 to 72 hours following the procedure are important for minimizing discomfort. Patients may manage mild pain with over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, or with a prescribed pain reliever. Applying an ice pack to the cheek area near the surgical site for the first day can help reduce swelling, using cycles of 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off.
Controlling minor bleeding is accomplished by applying firm pressure with a clean piece of gauze over the site for approximately one hour. Dietary adjustments are necessary; patients should stick to a diet of cool, soft foods and liquids for the first few days to avoid irritating the wound. Maintaining oral hygiene is important. While the surgical site should be avoided with a toothbrush on the day of the procedure, gentle brushing of other areas should be resumed immediately, and gentle rinsing with warm salt water should begin the day after surgery.
Steps to Prevent Future Growth
Since the formation of an oral fibroma is a reactive response to chronic friction or trauma, preventing recurrence requires eliminating the source of that irritation. The most common causes include habitual cheek or lip biting, rough edges on teeth, or poorly fitting dental appliances. If the lesion was caused by an orthodontic wire or an ill-fitting denture, those appliances must be professionally adjusted or replaced.
Changing habits like cheek biting requires conscious effort to minimize the repetitive trauma to the oral tissues. Addressing any sharp or rough tooth surfaces through polishing or restoration is a necessary preventative step. By removing the root cause of the friction, the chance of forming a new fibrous growth in the same location is significantly reduced.