
Oral health is about more than just teeth and gums it also involves the tissues inside your mouth. One common yet often misunderstood condition affecting the soft tissues is oral fibromas.
These benign growths may not always cause immediate concern, but understanding them can help you take appropriate steps if one appears in your mouth.
In this article, we’ll discuss what oral fibromas are, what causes them, and how to identify and treat them.
Whether you’re looking for natural remedies or professional treatment options, this guide will provide clear answers to common questions, such as What causes fibroma in the oral cavity?, Are fibromas hard or soft?, and How do you get rid of an oral fibroma?
What Are Oral Fibromas?
An oral fibroma is a non-cancerous growth made of fibrous tissue. They typically appear as small, round, or oval lumps in the mouth. While oral fibromas are not harmful and do not turn into cancer, they can be bothersome or uncomfortable, especially if they are located in areas where they are irritated by chewing, speaking, or dental appliances.
Oral fibromas are usually:
- Flesh-colored or slightly darker.
- Firm to the touch (although they may feel soft if inflamed).
- Found on the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or along the gumline.
What Causes Fibroma in the Oral Cavity?
The primary cause of oral fibromas is irritation or trauma to the soft tissues in the mouth. Repeated friction or injury can cause an overgrowth of fibrous tissue as your body’s natural way of protecting the area.
Common causes include:
- Cheek or lip biting: Accidentally biting your cheeks or lips repeatedly can lead to irritation.
- Poorly fitting dentures: Ill-fitting dental appliances can rub against the gums, causing fibromas to form.
- Dental braces: The wires and brackets of braces can irritate the inner cheeks or tongue, contributing to fibroma development.
- Sharp or broken teeth: A sharp edge of a tooth can irritate the surrounding tissue.
- Constant pressure: Repeated friction from chewing habits or using the mouth excessively in certain ways (e.g., playing wind instruments) may trigger fibromas.

Symptoms of Oral Fibromas
Oral fibromas are generally painless unless they are irritated. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
- A small lump or bump inside the mouth.
- Firm or rubbery texture.
- No discoloration, though some fibromas may appear slightly darker than surrounding tissue.
- Irritation or discomfort when the fibroma is repeatedly rubbed or bitten.
If you notice a lump in your mouth that changes size, becomes painful, or bleeds, it’s important to consult a dentist to rule out other conditions.
Are Fibromas Hard or Soft?
Fibromas are generally firm to the touch. Unlike cysts, which may feel soft and fluid-filled, fibromas are made of dense fibrous tissue, giving them a more solid texture. However, if a fibroma becomes irritated or inflamed, it may feel slightly softer or more tender.

How Do You Get Rid of an Oral Fibroma?
If you’ve noticed a fibroma in your mouth, you might wonder what steps to take to get rid of it. While some people explore natural remedies, most oral fibromas require professional treatment for complete removal.
1. Professional Removal
The most effective way to get rid of an oral fibroma is through surgical excision performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. Here’s what the process typically involves:
- Diagnosis: Your dentist will examine the fibroma and may take a biopsy to confirm that it’s benign.
- Excision: The fibroma is removed under local anesthesia. This is a quick and painless procedure.
- Healing: The area heals within a few days to a week, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.
Once a fibroma is removed, it rarely comes back unless the source of irritation persists.
2. Natural Remedies for Fibromas
Some people prefer to explore how to get rid of fibromas naturally. While natural remedies may not completely remove fibromas, they can help manage irritation and inflammation:
- Saltwater rinses: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can reduce inflammation and keep the area clean.
- Aloe vera gel: Applying aloe vera gel to the fibroma may soothe irritation and promote healing.
- Turmeric paste: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric paste can be applied gently to the fibroma to reduce swelling.
- Avoiding irritants: Stop habits like cheek biting or using ill-fitting dental appliances to prevent further irritation.
While these remedies may provide temporary relief, they won’t eliminate fibromas entirely. It’s always best to consult a dental professional for effective treatment.
How to Prevent Oral Fibromas
Preventing oral fibromas involves addressing the root causes of irritation in the mouth. Here are some tips:
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss daily to keep your mouth clean and free of irritants.
- Address dental issues promptly: Fix broken or sharp teeth and replace poorly fitting dental appliances.
- Break bad habits: Avoid cheek or lip biting and other repetitive behaviors that may irritate soft tissues.
- Protect your mouth: Use orthodontic wax for braces or a mouthguard if you’re prone to irritation from dental appliances.
By taking these steps, you can minimize the risk of developing oral fibromas in the first place.
When to See a Dentist
If you have a lump in your mouth that you suspect is an oral fibroma, it’s a good idea to see a dentist, especially if:
- The fibroma is painful or inflamed.
- It grows or changes in appearance.
- It bleeds or interferes with chewing or speaking.
- You’re unsure whether it’s a fibroma or another type of growth.
Your dentist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the best course of action to ensure your oral health is not compromised.
Living with Oral Fibromas
For most people, oral fibromas are more of a nuisance than a serious health concern. With proper care and professional treatment, they can be easily managed or removed. At Leila Hariri Dental Clinic (LHDM), we specialize in diagnosing and treating oral fibromas with expert care. Whether you’re seeking a definitive diagnosis or looking for effective removal options, our team is here to help.
Final Thoughts
Oral fibromas may not be dangerous, but they can affect your comfort and confidence. Understanding what causes fibroma in the oral cavity and knowing how to get rid of an oral fibroma can help you take control of your oral health.
If you’re dealing with an oral fibroma or suspect you might have one, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a dental professional. Whether you opt for surgical removal or want guidance on managing the condition, professional care is the key to achieving relief.
At Leila Hariri Dental Clinic, our team is dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy, comfortable mouth. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your oral health concerns!