About 4 months ago I one day woke up and with my tongue could feel a pretty large lump underneath my tongue in the floor lining of my mouth, and haven't been able to make it to the dentist yet as I am really short on money but was hoping to gain some insight here so any help will be appreciated. The syptoms are painless, and the lump seems to be smaller in the morning (almost non-exsistant) than at night and moves under pressure of my finger. Also when pressure is applied it almost seems to separate... I have read many things about swollen saliva glands, but could really use some insight and thanks. Obviously I will see a doctor in time, but at the moment I could just use a little reassurance..

I would get to an oral surgeon as soon as you can. It could be something simple like a blocked saliva duct but there has been an increase in oral cancer in the past few years and you have a better chance of survival if oral cancer is treated in it's early stage (usually before you can see it in your mouth).

I'd say a short office visit to an oral surgeon (not a dental surgeon) who specializes in this (most do) area might save your life.

Is there a University nearby with a dental school? They often have reduced fees. Just tell them what you are feeling and I'm sure one of their surgery students could see you quickly.

Hi there,

Did you find out what this was? It sounds very similar to something I have!

Hope all is well.

Have you seen your doctor/dentist yet?

It is called a Sialolith, a blockage (like a stone or stones that can lead to serious infection that will go into your neck glands). When you feel it coming on, suck on lemon drops and drinks LOTS of water. The lemon drops will help you salivate and if you can bear it, push the lump from the back to the center, under your tongue. Pus might come out at first but when clear liquid starts to come out you have a good chance that the stone will begin to move. Don't wait if it is big. Go to a conservative oral surgeon, have them numb you and "milk it" to try to break up the stone(s). If you are prone to kidney stones, gall stones, etc. you will likely be prone to these, luckily only on one side of your mouth. DO NOT let anyone cut these out as that will create scar tissue and you will get many more of these. Practically nobody in the dental world knows about these. This is my 5th one and an oral surgeon is the only dentist or doctor who knew what it was and how to treat it. Just DO NOT hesitate when you feel one coming on, treat it immediately.