What is a mucocele?
A mucocele, also known as a mucous cyst, occurs when a salivary duct has become blocked. The resulting cyst is small, filled with fluid, and can be found on the mouth or lip. The most common cause for a mucocele is trauma to the mouth, such as lip or cheek biting. While anyone can get a mucocele, they are most common among patients between the ages of 10 and 25. A mucocele is mostly found on the gums, the palate (roof of the mouth), under the tongue, or the lower lip.
A mucocele develops when a minor salivary gland duct is injured or severed and the salivary gland secretion spills into the adjacent connective tissue. Granulation tissue forms in response to the secreted mucus and comprises the lining of a cyst like structure.
Some mucoceles are short-lived lesions that burst spontaneously, leaving shallow ulcers that heal within a few days. Many, however, require local surgical excision with removal of adjacent minor salivary glands to minimize risk of recurrence.
Symptoms and treatment of a mucocele
Mucoceles tend to be soft and round, moveable, and a few centimeters in diameter and, in general, mucoceles do not tend to be painful.
Treatment for a mucocele is typically done with local anesthesia or IV sedation. Your oral surgeon may simply drain the mucocele or remove the cyst completely to prevent recurrence.
The dentists at Clínica Dental Champsaur treat patients of all ages at their practice in Panama City. Our surgery is equipped with the latest digital technology to ensure every patient receives the most accurate and effective treatment plan. If you or your child need a Mucocele Surgery in Panama, we encourage you to contact our practice to receive a consultation appointment.
Our dentist will examine any swelling or lumps in your mouth to determine their cause. Depending on the size and location of the lump, as well as your patient history, we may elect to perform several different tests.
In some cases, your dentist may put pressure on the lump to see if it changes colour. A lump that blanches under pressure may indicate a hemangioma, which is a harmless growth of blood vessels. We may elect to remove any swollen tissue to send it out for laboratory examination or do histopathology study. In some cases, X-rays will help determine if there is a salivary gland stone present or a specialized mucocele known as a ranula. We will discuss any test results with you and answer any questions that you may have.
More questions about Mucocele Surgery in Panama
How Are Mucoceles Treated?
A mucocele is usually removed surgically with either a scalpel or laser. The removed tissue will be sent to a laboratory for evaluation. Our oral surgeons will meet with you to discuss the details of your procedure and answer any questions you may have before treatment.
How do I get started with treatment for mucoceles?
Our staff would be happy to discuss about Mucocele Surgery in Panama with you. Please call to 261-6650, or schedule an appointment online to arrange for a private consultation at our office.