Bump on the Roof of Mouth | Ask the Expert: Dr. Smedley: Ear, Nose and Throat with Utica Park Clinic

Spread the love

Question:

Near the back of the left side of the roof of my mouth, I have a small bump. I’ll dig at it with a fingernail a few times to scrape it away. That’s a little bit uncomfortable, but not too bad. However, it typically comes back within a week or two. This has been going on for six months or so. Any idea what that might be?

Answer:

Anytime there is a sore in the mouth that is present for more than a couple of weeks, it is a good idea to get it checked out by your dentist or physician. Depending on how far back in your mouth it is, it could be a tonsil stone (tonsillolith). These are frequently accompanied by a foul smell and bad breath (halitosis).

The roof of the mouth is made up of two portions: the hard palate in the front and the soft palate in the back. Sores here that are present for more than a week or two definitely need to be seen by a professional that can give you guidance on what to do. It may be something as simple as adjusting poor-fitting dentures or may require further intervention to see what it is and how to help alleviate the problem. Don’t hesitate to get answers from someone that is able to help you meet your health and wellness goals!