Red Spots on Top of Mouth: Causes and Treatment

Understanding Red Spots on the Top of the Mouth

The appearance of red spots on the top of the mouth can be concerning. However, in most cases these spots are harmless and clear up on their own. Still, it's important to understand the potential causes so that appropriate treatment can be sought if necessary.

What Causes Red Spots Inside the Mouth?

There are several possible explanations for the development of red spots on the mouth's interior. Common causes include:

• Canker sores - These small, painful ulcers can crop up on the gums, inner cheeks, lips, or tongue. They usually clear up within 1-2 weeks.
• Oral thrush - A yeast infection marked by red lesions on the tongue or inner cheek.
• Irritation - Spicy foods, mouth injury, or even energetic tooth brushing can lead to sore spots.
• Cold sores - Contagious fever blisters triggered by the herpes simplex virus.
• Leukoplakia - White or red patches caused by excess cell growth triggered by irritation.
• Oral lichen planus - An inflammatory condition leading to lace-like white or red lesions.

Are Red Spots in Mouth Painful?

In many cases, red spots inside the mouth may be accompanied by discomfort, stinging, or pain. Canker sores are typically the most painful type of mouth lesion. The level of discomfort can make tasks like eating, drinking, and talking difficult. Other times, red spots result in minimal pain or none whatsoever.

What Do Cancerous Mouth Spots Look Like?

While the majority of red mouth spots are harmless, occasionally they can indicate something more serious like oral cancer or precancer. You should be evaluated promptly by a dentist or doctor if you notice any of the following:

• Spots or lesions that don't heal within 2 weeks
• Pigmented lesions that are black/brown in color
• White, red, or speckled patches in the mouth
• Growths or thickened lumps in the mouth
• Repeated bleeding in the mouth
• Unexplained numbness or odd sensations in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Loosening of teeth without a known cause
• Lingering sore throat or hoarse voice

Diagnosing Red Spots on the Roof of Mouth

Because red mouth spots can indicate a spectrum of causes, it's important to seek professional diagnosis. This will ensure proper treatment and management of any underlying condition.

Oral Examination

The first step is a visual inspection of the spots. Factors like location, size, shape, texture, and color provide insight on the possible cause. Additional oral symptoms are considered as well.

Medical History

Your physician will ask about your medical history, including:

• Duration of symptoms
• Presence of pain or discomfort
• Recent illness
• Current medications
• History of diabetes, autoimmune disorder, or STD
• Tobacco or alcohol use

Testing

Depending on the suspected cause, the following tests may be performed:

• Blood test
• Biopsy - Removing a small sample to examine under a microscope
• Patch test - Applying potential irritants to see if they trigger a reaction
• Viral culture - Testing for infection

These help confirm an accurate diagnosis for appropriate treatment.

Treating Red Spots on Mouth Roof

Treatment varies based on the underlying trigger for the mouth spots. Here are some common approaches:

Topical Medications

Corticosteroid creams, gels, or rinses may be prescribed to reduce discomfort and inflammation. Topical antifungals can also treat oral thrush.

Oral Medications

Your doctor may prescribe:

• Antiviral tablets to combat cold sore outbreaks
• Antifungal pills for stubborn thrush
• Medicated mouthwashes containing steroids or antifungals

Lifestyle Adjustments

Avoiding foods, products, or behaviors that seem to trigger mouth lesions can encourage healing. Tactics include:

• Eating soft, bland foods
• Taking care when brushing teeth
• Quitting smoking and tobacco use
• Rinsing mouth after using inhalers

Surgery

If lesions in the mouth indicate cancer, part of the affected area may be removed during a procedure. Additional treatment like radiation or chemotherapy may also be warranted.

Preventing Red Dots on Top of Mouth

While some causes of mouth spots can't be prevented, you can take certain measures to reduce your risks:

• Practice good oral hygiene - Brush and floss gently twice a day.
• Avoid irritants - Curb intake of spicy, acidic, crunchy, or coarse foods.
• Manage health conditions - Keep diabetes and autoimmune disorders under control.
• Protect your mouth - Wear a mouthguard during contact sports.
• Quit smoking - Tobacco use raises oral cancer risks.
• Use lip balm - Keep lips moisturized to avoid cracks and sores.

See your dentist regularly for exams and professional cleanings as well. And contact your doctor promptly about any mouth lesions or irritation lasting more than 1-2 weeks.

Understanding what's behind red spots in the mouth guides next steps. In most cases they are harmless. But it's still wise to get examined and treated if the area becomes painful, doesn't improve, or if your symptoms raise concern about precancer or cancer.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.