A mucous cyst or mucocele is a cyst that is filled with fluid that develops in the lips or in the mouth. Generally, it is caused by mucus obstruction in the salivary glands within the mouth. It can happen on any site in the oral cavity but usually develops in the lower part of the lip. It is a benign condition and if not properly treated, the cyst can become permanent.
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Causes of mucous cyst
- The salivary gland is injured or blocked
- Trauma due to a direct blow or hit by a blunt object and accidentally biting the soft tissue inside the mouth due to the adjacent teeth.
- Mouth piercing
- Damaged teeth
- Someone accidentally bites the cheeks
Symptoms
- Bluish discoloration of the affected area
- Swelling of the area
- The size of the cyst is small
- Tenderness of the area around the cysts when touched
Symptoms of cyst that develops deep in the skin
- Whitish discoloration of the affected area
- Tenderness of the mucous cyst
- Development of a round bump at the affected area
Treatment
- Use salt to remove all the mucus from the mucocele and lessen the pain and the inflammation of the area. In a cup filled with warm water, add ½ tablespoon of salt and mix until totally dissolved. Use this solution as a mouthwash at least 3-4 times every day.
- Apply an ice pack on the affected area for at least a minute several times every day. Ice will numb the pain and lessen the irritation caused by large oral cysts.
- Glycerin has antiseptic and healing properties that eliminates microbes that cause the infection. It also keeps the area moist which is necessary for fast healing of the condition. Dab a small amount of vegetable glycerin on the cysts and let it remain for several hours and rinse the mouth using cool water. Repeat this process 3-4 times every day.
- Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties for fast healing of the cysts and wounds and prevents infections. Dip a cotton swab in hydrogen peroxide and apply on the affected area at least 2 times every day.
- A prescribed steroid can be injected into the cysts to lessen the swelling and the inflammation and for fast healing of the condition. Another alternative in removing the mucous cyst is the micro-marsupialization which uses silk sutures in the dome of the cyst for new epithelialized drainage. It is less traumatic and tolerated by patients especially the children.
FACT CHECK
https://www.healthline.com/health/mucous-cyst
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321818.php
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1056917-overview