Fibroma removal
Oral surgery specialists
Fibroma
A fibroma is a small, benign growth that can occur in the mouth. Although they are mostly harmless, they can cause discomfort or concern in some patients. Here at Denta1 Clinic, we understand your concerns and are here to provide you with all the information you need to stay informed and reassured.
What are fibromas?
Fibromas, also known as fibromatous hyperplasias, are non-cancerous tumors composed of connective tissue. They can occur anywhere in the body, but are particularly common in the mouth on the inside of the cheeks, lips, under the tongue, or on the gums. Fibromas are usually soft to the touch, but can also be hardened, and often have a smooth, pink surface.
Process
Irritable fibromas are identified during a dental examination and should be evaluated by a specialist to rule out serious conditions
The irritant fibroma is surgically removed under local anesthesia and the tissue removed is analyzed in the laboratory to ensure that it is not malignant.
Depending on whether the irritation fibroma was caused by gum inflammation or poorly fitting dentures, the underlying cause should be treated and adjustment of the dentures should be considered.
Fibroma removal – a low-risk method to eliminate irritating fibromas
Irritating fibromas can form on the oral mucosa, on the inside of the cheeks and in other areas of the gum mucosa. Nodular irritation fibromas, which are reminiscent of stalked warts, have a smooth and limited structure. The small lumps in the mouth area arise from manual irritation, for example from poorly fitting dentures or from poor dental hygiene. Removal of fibromas is usually the best solution to avoid chronic ones.
What is an irritant fibroma?
Although fibromas are classified as tumors, they are benign growths. Malignant changes in the connective tissue are called fibrosarcomas. The causes that lead to the development of a fibroma in the oral cavity have not yet been conclusively clarified. The most common triggers include an incorrect bite
poorly fitting dentures as well as a dental fistula or root tip inflammation. In addition, deep gum pockets can also promote the formation of fibromas. Since benign growths such as irritable fibromas tend to run in families, a genetic predisposition can also be considered as a cause. It is also thought that taking certain medicines, such as beta blockers, can promote the formation of a fibroma. Changes in the mucous membrane in the oral cavity range from the smallest tumors without any disease significance to malignant changes. When it comes to changes in the oral mucosa, early diagnosis through routine dental checks plays an important role.
So-called irritation fibromas usually arise in the mouth as a result of constant mechanical irritation. These often occur on the edges of prostheses (prosthesis edge fibroma), on the inside of the lip or on the tongue. Although these formations are benign, they are aesthetically unsightly and can affect the fit of the prosthesis. When fibroids reach a certain size, they often lead to bite injuries. A special case is the so-called Schlotter ridge, in which the entire oral mucosa under the prosthesis is highly mobile and “springy” due to the fibroma. Here, the hold of the prosthesis is severely impaired, which has a negative impact on the quality of life. Fibromas should therefore usually be removed. Most fibromas are excess irritating tissue. Therefore, surgical resection/removal is the treatment of choice. However, it is then important to eliminate the cause of the fibroma, such as removing sharp edges or annoying edges of the prosthesis.
When is fibroma removal advisable?
We recommend removing an irritant fibroma if it is causing discomfort. Fibromas in the oral cavity can cause pain. Bleeding or problems with speaking and chewing often occur during oral hygiene. There are often aesthetic reasons for which removing irritating fibromas is the best alternative. Under no circumstances should you remove a fibroma in your mouth yourself, otherwise there is a high risk of infection. Fibromas in the mouth are harmless and generally not contagious. In principle, changes in the oral mucosa can have different causes. Since it is not possible for laypeople to distinguish benign fibromas from those that require treatment, all changes should be clarified by dental examinations to be on the safe side.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of fibroma formation is not yet fully understood. However, they are often associated with mechanical irritation, such as biting the inside of the cheek, dentures that do not fit perfectly, or sharp edges on teeth or fillings. Some people develop fibroids in response to chronic irritation, suggesting that individual tissue response may play a role.
Symptoms of fibroids
Most fibroids do not cause pain and many people may not even notice them. However, when they reach a certain size or are in an area that is subject to constant friction, they can become uncomfortable. Symptoms can be:
- A noticeable bulge or mass in the mouth
- Discomfort or pain when touched or moved
- Difficulty eating or speaking if the fibroma is large enough
Treatment options for fibroma removal
Fibroma removal in our Denta1 Clinic is carried out using various methods tailored to the individual case. The most common techniques include:
- Surgical excision: The traditional method in which the fibroma is removed under local anesthesia.
- Laser therapy: A minimally invasive method of fibroid removal that promises less pain and faster healing.
- electrosurgery: A technique that uses electric current to precisely remove the fibroma while minimizing bleeding.
Prevention and management after fibroma removal
After successful fibroma removal, it is important to intensify oral hygiene and avoid potential sources of irritation to prevent recurrence. Regular dental examinations make it possible to detect and treat any new formations at an early stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a fibroma and how do I recognize it?
A fibroma is a small, benign tumor made of connective tissue that usually occurs in the oral cavity. It is often skin-colored or slightly pink, has a smooth surface, and can result from irritation or trauma to the mouth area. Fibromas are usually painless and rarely cause any discomfort. If you notice a non-painful, soft growth in your mouth, it could be a fibroma. We recommend an examination by a specialist from our Denta1 Clinic to make an accurate diagnosis.
Are fibroids always harmless or can they also be malignant?
Fibromas are benign tumors that generally do not pose any health risks. However, it is important to have any oral changes examined by a dentist to rule out other, potentially more serious conditions. Performing a biopsy upon removal can confirm that it is a harmless fibroma.
How long does fibroma removal take and is the procedure painful?
Irritable fibromas can be easily diagnosed during a dental examination. They are removed surgically under local anesthesia, and the removed tissue is examined in the laboratory to rule out malignant causes.
Are there alternative treatment methods for irritable fibromas?
Yes, an alternative therapy is the injection of corticosteroid into the fibroma tissue. However, this method does not allow for a tissue examination.
What are the benefits of removing an irritant fibroma?
Removal prevents further discomfort such as pain or bleeding in the oral cavity and can improve the aesthetic appearance.
What risks are associated with the removal of an irritant fibroma?
If the cause of the irritable fibroma is not eliminated, it may reoccur. If you take blood-thinning medication, bleeding may occur after the procedure. It is important to identify and avoid the exact causes of fibroma formation to prevent recurrence.
