What causes a transparent bump in the mouth, and what should I do about it?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, a transparent bump in the mouth may be caused by factors such as consuming food that is too hot or hard, accidental biting, mucous gland cysts, herpetic stomatitis, or pemphigus. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general measures or medication under a doctor's guidance. Maintain good oral hygiene daily by brushing teeth morning and night with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the oral mucosa.
Generally, a transparent bump in the mouth may be caused by factors such as consuming food that is too hot or hard, accidental biting, mucous gland cysts, herpetic gingivostomatitis, pemphigus, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general care, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Food that is too hot or hard: Consuming very hot foods like hot pot or hard foods such as nuts can scratch the oral mucosa, causing tissue fluid to leak and form transparent small bumps. Immediately stop eating irritating foods, switch to cool, soft liquid or semi-liquid diets, rinse your mouth with warm water after meals, and avoid secondary mucosal injury.
2. Accidental biting: Accidentally biting the oral mucosa during chewing may block salivary gland ducts, leading to mucus retention and formation of a transparent bump. Slow down while eating, chew carefully to prevent re-injury, maintain good oral hygiene, and rinse your mouth with mild salt water after meals. Most cases resolve spontaneously.
3. Mucous gland cyst: Blockage of salivary gland ducts causes mucus accumulation. The bump appears translucent, soft in texture, and commonly occurs on the inner lower lip. Small cysts may be treated under medical guidance with medications such as Kangfuxin solution, watermelon frost spray, or chlorhexidine mouthwash to promote resolution. Larger or recurrent cysts require surgical excision, including complete removal of the cyst and affected glandular tissue.
4. Herpetic stomatitis: Caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus, this condition initially presents as transparent small blisters accompanied by burning and pain, which easily rupture to form ulcers. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as acyclovir tablets, ribavirin lozenges, and Kangfuxin solution. Avoid kissing others to prevent transmission, and avoid spicy or irritating foods to reduce discomfort.
5. Pemphigus: An autoimmune disorder causing blisters on skin and mucous membranes. Transparent bumps in the mouth tend to rupture easily, accompanied by pain and difficulty eating. Patients should take immunomodulatory medications such as prednisone tablets, methotrexate tablets, or cyclosporine soft capsules as prescribed. Clean the mouth promptly after eating to prevent secondary infections.
Maintain daily oral hygiene by brushing teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the oral mucosa. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables to supplement vitamins, maintain regular sleep patterns to boost immunity. Avoid bad habits such as biting lips or tongue. Promote recovery of oral health through scientific care.
