A mouth cyst, also known as an oral cyst, is a sac or pouch filled with fluid or semisolid material that forms within the mouth. These cysts can occur in various locations within the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, palate, or the floor of the mouth.

There are several types of mouth cysts, each with its own specific characteristics and causes. Some common types of oral cysts include:

1. Mucocele: This type of cyst typically forms on the inside of the lower lip or the floor of the mouth. It is often caused by damage to a salivary gland duct, which leads to the accumulation of saliva and the formation of a cyst.

2. Ranula: Similar to a mucocele, a ranula is a cyst that forms on the floor of the mouth, usually as a result of a blocked salivary gland.

3. Dentigerous cyst: This type of cyst forms around an unerupted or impacted tooth, most commonly the wisdom teeth. It occurs when the tooth is unable to erupt properly and becomes surrounded by fluid-filled sac.

4. Radicular cyst: Also known as a periapical cyst, this type of cyst forms at the tip of a tooth’s root as a result of inflammation and infection in the tooth’s pulp.

5. Epidermoid cyst: These cysts are filled with a cheese-like material and are often found on the floor of the mouth or the tongue. They are thought to develop from trapped skin cells during embryonic development.

Mouth cysts may not always cause symptoms, but when they do, common signs and symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected area. In some cases, a cyst may become infected, leading to the development of an abscess.

Treatment for a mouth cyst will depend on its type, size, location, and symptoms. In some cases, a small cyst may resolve on its own without treatment. However, larger or symptomatic cysts may require drainage, surgical removal, or other interventions to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence.

It’s important to seek evaluation and treatment from a dentist or oral surgeon if you suspect you have a mouth cyst. Ignoring a cyst or attempting to self-treat it can lead to complications and further health problems. Additionally, some oral cysts may be a sign of an underlying dental or oral health issue that needs to be addressed.