I Have a Wart-Like Growth in My Mouth β Could It Be Cancer?
Finding a wart-like growth in your mouth is understandably concerning. Here is what it might be.
Wart-like growths in the mouth are rarely cancer. The most common causes include:
- Papilloma β a small, cauliflower-like growth caused by HPV (human papillomavirus), usually benign
- Fibroma β a smooth, firm, pink bump from irritation or biting
- Verruca vulgaris β a common wart that can occasionally occur in the mouth
- Condyloma acuminatum β a type of HPV-related growth that can appear in the mouth
- Irritation fibroma β a scar-like bump from repeated cheek or lip biting
HPV-related growths in the mouth are usually caused by low-risk HPV types (like HPV 6 and 11) that are not linked to cancer. However, the appearance can sometimes overlap with more serious conditions, so professional evaluation is important.
What to Look For
- Usually not serious:
- Small, cauliflower-like or finger-like projection
- Pink or white, same color as surrounding tissue
- Single growth that does not grow rapidly
- Painless
- Has been there a long time without changing
- Worth having checked:
- Growth that is growing rapidly
- Growth that bleeds, ulcerates, or becomes painful
- Hard or firm base
- Multiple growths appearing at once
- Growth with red, white, or dark discoloration
When to See a Doctor
- See a dentist if:
- You notice any wart-like growth in your mouth, even if it seems harmless
- The growth is growing or changing
- It bleeds when you touch it
- You have a sore throat or lump in your neck
- You have multiple growths