Concern About a Black Mark on the Inner Lip
I am a male in my late 30s, standing approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing around 155 pounds. Recently, I've noticed a black mark on the left side of my inner lower lip. I'm reaching out for insights on this issue. About six weeks ago, while enjoying frozen berries, including blackberries and blueberries, I caught a glimpse of my reflection in the mirror after eating. To my surprise, I spotted a dark blemish on the inside of my bottom lip, only appearing when I opened my mouth. Initially, I presumed it might just be residue from the berries, but attempts to wipe it off were unsuccessful. I even dampened a paper towel to clean it, yet the mark remained. Following this, I remember using the towel again and inadvertently swallowing some berry peel. Upon further inspection, I realized that this black spot resembled either a sunspot or a birthmark and had been present on my left inner lip. Despite my efforts, including using a small toothbrush, I could not remove it. I wasn't aware of how long this blemish had existed until I noticed it about a month and a half ago. In my previous replies, I shared two images: one taken around the time of the initial discovery and another from more recently. I'm concerned about whether this mark should be a cause for alarm. Flipping to the side of my face, there are a couple of noticeable sunspots. However, this particular mark is only visible when I open my mouth; it's concealed when my lips are together, as it doesn't appear when I merely pucker my lips without opening my mouth. Its size seems unchanged. I’ve read about melanotic macules, but I'm uncertain if this fits that description. Additionally, I've been somewhat lax with my oral hygiene lately, often resorting to using Listerine as a substitute for thorough brushing. I'm baffled about the cause of this mark, particularly since my sun exposure has been minimal — even when I do go outside, the mark doesn't show unless I open my mouth. Could this possibly relate to sun exposure?
Answers (1)
7/30/2025, 6:31:06 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a new mark on your inner lip, especially when it hasn't changed since you first noticed it. Let's address your situation step by step.
Main Points:
- The black mark you see may be harmless, perhaps resembling a melanotic macule, but monitoring is essential.
- Factors such as oral hygiene, sun exposure, or even the food you eat could contribute to changes in your mouth, but this specific mark deserves attention.
Explanation:
A melanotic macule is a flat, pigmented lesion that often appears in the mouth and can look like a small black or brown spot. These are usually benign and can happen due to several reasons, including minor trauma or irritation. Since you mentioned worsening oral hygiene, it's good practice to improve that, as poor hygiene can contribute to other oral health issues.
While your mark doesn't seem to change with sun exposure (as you noted it only appears when your mouth is open), it's still wise to consider all possible factors, including reactions to certain foods, particularly berries, which may cause temporary pigmentation.
Next Steps:
-
Improve Oral Hygiene: Start by returning to a thorough dental care routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and consider flossing daily. Avoid using mouthwash as a substitute for brushing.
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Monitor the Mark: Keep an eye on the black mark over the next few weeks. Take note if it changes in size, color, or texture. If you notice any alterations, it's essential to seek professional help.
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Avoid Irritants: Be cautious about consuming foods that might irritate the area or contribute to discoloration. This includes highly pigmented foods, which may temporarily stain.
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Consult a Professional if Necessary: If the mark persists beyond a few weeks without any signs of fading, or if you experience pain, swelling, or any new symptoms, consider seeing a dentist or dermatologist for a professional evaluation.
By following these action steps, you can manage your oral health proactively while keeping tabs on the mark. If you have more concerns or updates, don't hesitate to reach out.
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