Small bubble inside lip

A small bubble inside the lip is often a fluid-filled mucocele or irritation, but its cause depends on its texture and duration.

A mucocele forms when a minor salivary gland duct leaks mucus after lip biting or trauma. A pale patch, ulcer, blood blister, or firm lump has a different appearance and may need another diagnosis.

Avoid biting the area and choose soft foods while it settles. A dentist or oral clinician can inspect it and, when needed, remove a persistent mucocele with its associated gland tissue.

Arrange an examination if the lump lasts, repeatedly fills, grows, bleeds, becomes hard, or causes numbness. Seek prompt care for spreading swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing.

Ask whether the lesion is a mucocele, trauma, infection, or another oral growth, and whether it needs observation or removal. Ask how recurrence will be prevented if a salivary duct is involved.