Oral Cyst Draining in Bowie, MD

You might be surprised to learn that oral cysts are common and often disappear without treatment, like cyst draining. However, if you’re in doubt about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult our dentist in Bowie, MD.

What are Oral Cysts?

Also known as mucous cysts, oral cysts are a type of growth that occurs inside the mouth. It feels like little bumps, but these cysts are small sacs filled with fluid. Oral cysts can randomly form in any area of the mouth, including the insides of the lips or cheeks, the tongue, the palate, the floor of the mouth, and around oral piercings.

Dental cysts usually form around damaged, dead, or buried teeth devoid of proper dental treatment. These sacs are often slow-growing, unlike dental abscesses that typically represent acute infection. 

In rare cases, a sebum-filled sebaceous cyst forms in some regions of the oral cavity. However, sebaceous cysts more commonly appear in other parts of the body.

When Is Oral Cyst Removal Necessary?

Most oral cysts are benign and disappear without treatment, like cyst draining. Other oral cysts remain small or harmless. However, if a cyst becomes infected, it may turn into an abscess.

An abscess can cause extreme pain, swelling, and discomfort and will need medical treatment to keep the infection from spreading. You should never attempt to squeeze or lance an oral cyst on your own, so talk to our dental professionals as soon as possible. You may need surgical cyst draining with sterile equipment.

Cyst Draining and Abscess Incision

While a minor oral infection responds well to antibiotics, an infected cyst or abscess often requires incision and drainage. It is a relatively uncomplicated surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia.

Incision: What to expect

After the dental surgeon numbs the affected area, a small incision removes the fluids accumulated in the infected cyst or abscess pocket. Depending on the size of the cyst or abscess, the dentist may insert a drain to siphon off excess liquid.

After drainage, the dentist will use sterile saline to irrigate the surgery site and clean it. As necessary, the patient may receive an application of topical or orally prescribed antibiotics.

Recovery After Drainage

Healing properly after an incision and drainage procedure ensures ongoing oral health. Follow your dentist’s home care guidelines, which may include:

• Avoid touching the surgery site
• Keep the area clean and gently rinse it with warm saline solution
• Take all prescribed antibiotics as per the instructions
• If necessary, take OTC or prescription pain medication
• Consume liquid or soft foods until any pain and swelling abates

If you experience pain, swelling, or a fever higher than 101 degrees F, contact our dental health professional immediately for a follow-up appointment.

Superior Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in Bowie, MD

Are you suffering from an oral cyst or abscess? Schedule an appointment at Superior Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today. We’re a family-owned dental practice serving patients of all ages in Bowie, MD.

Our medical professionals strive to give all our patients a positive, stress-free dental experience with minimal discomfort. Call us at (301) 464-2323 today.