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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes A Skin Tag Inside The Cheek?

Hi, I seem to have what appears to me to be a skin tag on the inside of my cheek. It looks kind of like a pimple, but the reason it seems like a tag is because I can lift up part of it with my tongue. Part of it is has a flap that I can lift. What bothers me is that it's been there for at least a month...it doesn't change size but it doesn't go away either. Do you have any suggestions? I am seeing the dentist soon. Thank you
Fri, 30 May 2014
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Dentist 's  Response
Hello,
The best for you to do is bring this to the attention of your dentist on your visit. My initial question is how does it compare to the other side of your mouth? Your description could indicate the duct to the salivary gland. If this is irritated or blocked, it can appear large. Take a look on the opposite side of your mouth to see if you can locate a duct on both sides. Rinsing advised with warm salt water and avoid trauma to area.
Trauma such as biting your cheek can cause something like this. This can reoccur because it is bulky and gets in your way again. A tag that does not go away can be removed and your dentist can advise you on the various methods if needed. If you grind your teeth at night, you may damage the cheek and not be aware of cheek damage. If you chew tobacco this can happen as well. Tobacco has a known relation to cancer and any abnormal areas should be checked.
A cyst or tumor can occur. This is of greater concern if it seems to be getting larger, painful and changes color or texture.
Please be sure to complete your dental visit and monitor for any increase in symptoms. I hope this is helpful. Thank you for your inquiry.
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What Causes A Skin Tag Inside The Cheek?

Hello, The best for you to do is bring this to the attention of your dentist on your visit. My initial question is how does it compare to the other side of your mouth? Your description could indicate the duct to the salivary gland. If this is irritated or blocked, it can appear large. Take a look on the opposite side of your mouth to see if you can locate a duct on both sides. Rinsing advised with warm salt water and avoid trauma to area. Trauma such as biting your cheek can cause something like this. This can reoccur because it is bulky and gets in your way again. A tag that does not go away can be removed and your dentist can advise you on the various methods if needed. If you grind your teeth at night, you may damage the cheek and not be aware of cheek damage. If you chew tobacco this can happen as well. Tobacco has a known relation to cancer and any abnormal areas should be checked. A cyst or tumor can occur. This is of greater concern if it seems to be getting larger, painful and changes color or texture. Please be sure to complete your dental visit and monitor for any increase in symptoms. I hope this is helpful. Thank you for your inquiry.