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Published on: 3/5/2025

Should I Be Concerned about Tiny, Painless Bumps on My Lips?

Tiny, painless bumps on your lips are usually not a major cause for concern. They are often benign but should be monitored for any changes over time.

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Explanation

Many tiny, painless bumps on the lips turn out to be harmless. For example, they might be a normal part of your lips’ appearance, such as Fordyce spots or other small cyst-like growths. Sometimes, viral or fungal infections can cause bumps in the mouth, but these are often temporary and resolve on their own without causing pain. Research into oral cancers has shown that while some bumps can be concerning when they are irregular, painful, or changing in appearance, tiny and painless bumps are less likely to be serious. There is also a discussion about the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the mouth, but HPV-related changes typically look different than small, benign bumps. The key thing to do is to keep an eye on them. If you notice changes in size, color, or if they become uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to have a doctor take a closer look. In most cases, however, tiny, painless bumps don't mean there is a problem.

(References)

  • Glick M, Siegel MA. Viral and fungal infections of the oral cavity in immunocompetent patients. Infect Dis Clin North Am. 1999 Dec;13(4):817-31, vi. doi: 10.1016/s0891-5520(05)70110-0. PMID: 10579110.

  • Chocolatewala NM, Chaturvedi P. Role of human papilloma virus in the oral carcinogenesis: an Indian perspective. J Cancer Res Ther. 2009 Apr-Jun;5(2):71-7. doi: 10.4103/0973-1482.52788. PMID: 19542661.

  • Scully C, Bagan J. Oral squamous cell carcinoma: overview of current understanding of aetiopathogenesis and clinical implications. Oral Dis. 2009 Sep;15(6):388-99. doi: 10.1111/j.1601-0825.2009.01563.x. Epub 2009 Apr 2. PMID: 19371401.

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