It may be painless or sore.

Some people are born with it, while others may develop it later in life.

Canker Sore

Canker sores are small sores that appear on the inside of the mouth inside.

person with mouth open

Miguel Angel Flores / Getty Images

They can show up as one or in small clusters.

Cold sores are contagious.

It may also be accompanied by bleeding or pain.

A severe burn can develop into a blister.

They can look like teeth coming in.

Epstein pearls usually go away within a few weeks after birth.

Squamous papilloma are noncancerous and do not require treatment, though they can be removed surgically.

Mucoceles

A pea-sized lump on the roof of your mouth could be a mucocele.

Mucoceles form when a salivary gland becomes irritated or inflamed.

Hyperdontia

Hyperdontia is an uncommon cause of a lump at the top of the mouth.

Hyperdontia can cause jaw pain and headaches.

It is treated by removing the extra tooth.

Oral Cancer

Cancer on the roof of the mouth is called hard palate cancer.

A proper diagnosis is essential for getting the right treatment if desired.

A healthcare provider may ask about other symptoms and run some tests to see the underlying cause.

Treatment

Treatment for a bump on the roof of the mouth will depend on the cause.

A bump on the roof of the mouth usually disappears by itself.

More serious causes, like an infection, may require more follow-up care.

When Should You Worry About a Lump in Your Mouth?

It will often go away on its own.

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