1. Skin Tags in the Mouth (Oral Skin Tags)
Symptoms
- Small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths
- Usually painless, but may feel odd on the tongue or inner cheek
- May be smooth or slightly wrinkled
- Can appear singly or in clusters
- Sometimes mistaken for warts or other oral lesions
Causes
- Friction from teeth, dental appliances, or tongue movement
- Genetics (common in people prone to skin tags elsewhere)
- Hormonal changes
- Aging
Treatment
Usually harmless and don’t require treatment. Can be removed by a dentist or oral surgeon using:
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Surgical excision
- Laser removal
2. Oral Genital Warts (HPV in the Mouth)
Caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – a sexually transmitted infection that can affect the mouth and throat.
Symptoms
- Small, soft, cauliflower-like bumps inside the mouth or lips
- May appear on tongue, gums, roof of mouth, or inner cheeks
- Sometimes itchy, irritated, or mildly painful
- Can be white, pink, or flesh-colored
Causes
- Oral sex with a partner infected with HPV
- Deep kissing or contact with infected skin/mucosa
- Weakened immune system may increase risk
Treatment
No cure for HPV itself, but the warts can be treated
- Topical creams (in some cases)
- Laser or cryotherapy
- Surgical removal
- HPV vaccines (like Gardasil) can help prevent some strains
3. Genital Warts on the Hands (Uncommon but Possible)
Symptoms
- Small, raised, rough or smooth bumps on fingers or palms
- Can look similar to common warts
- Usually painless, but may itch
Causes
- Direct contact with HPV (from infected surfaces or person)
- Touching an infected area and transferring the virus to hands
- Often confused with common hand warts (caused by different HPV strains)
Treatment
- Topical treatments (salicylic acid, imiquimod)
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Electrosurgery or laser removal
- Good hygiene to avoid spreading
Prevention Tips
- Practice safe sex, including use of barriers for oral sex
- Avoid contact with warts on yourself or others
- Get vaccinated (HPV vaccine is effective)
- Maintain good oral and personal hygiene
- Visit a doctor or dentist if you notice unusual growths