Hi,

I'm new to this group and I just returned from seeing an oral surgeon and will likely be getting a biopsy of my cheek. I notice that for years I get those white patches that come and go, but this time they saw redness back there along with little red like pimple things on the roof of my mouth. Anyone with similar symptoms that resulted in cancer?? I'm have a tooth pulled that could be causing irritation, then to see if this changes the redness and dots, but I doubt it will. They said to wait a few weeks after pulling the tooth to see if it changes. Any help, comments, or advise would really be appreciated.

Hi REB

There are several causes for little red pimple like things in the roof of the mouth. One is smoker's palate as seen in pipe smokers and the other is denture stomatitis which can manifest itself in a number of ways, ranging from localized inflammation under a denture to a more widespread, somewhat painful inflammation. It also can include papillary hyperplasia, a cluster of red, pebblelike sores on the roof of the mouth. Denture-induced stomatitis occurs more frequently with upper dentures. In ill-fitting dentures, this leads to a greater build-up of yeast under the dentures that is not easily washed away by saliva.

Certain groups of people are at increased risk for this condition. People with weakened immune systems — from medication or an underlying condition — are more likely to be infected with Candida. Denture-induced stomatitis also has been found at higher levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

People with denture-induced stomatitis can experience pain or soreness, but they often have no symptoms. Tissues under the denture will appear inflamed and redder than usual. With papillary hyperplasia, small red sores will appear on the roof of the mouth.

Let's hope you have a good negative result for your biopsy. Let us know what your doctor says.

Best wishes
Vinod

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Dr Vinod K Joshi,

Than you Dr. Joshi. The red pimples around the roof of my mouth are the size of pinheads. Very tiny and spaced randomly about 1/4" apart. I do smoke, but no dentures. Is this what you are describing?

Hi REB

Yes, papillary hyperplasia.
Stop smoking if you can.

Best wishes
Vinod