- Concern over Kanye’s lip growth
- Possible causes and concerns
- Risks of dental adornments
Today, Kanye West’s appearance, featuring what seemed to be a growth in the middle of his upper lip, sparked widespread concern.
The lump emerged just weeks after the controversial rapper underwent experimental dental surgery to have titanium prostheses, valued at $850,000 (£670k), made.
Ye shared an aeroplane journey with his 29-year-old wife, Bianca Censori, on an Instagram story.
In addition to his Bond villain-like canines protruding, social media users noticed a “bubble”-like substance on his upper lip, leading to speculation about what was ‘wrong’ with West’s lip.
While avoiding speculation, contemporary experts suggested that tumours of a similar shape could result from herpes or an allergic reaction. Some speculated the titanium implants might be causing the problem.
Though they can cause discomfort or pain, these often resolve on their own within a few days.
Dr Praveen Sharma, a specialist in restorative dentistry and scientific advisor to the British Dental Association, told MailOnline, “Herpes infection is one of the most common causes of lumps on the lips.”
Additionally, physical trauma or an allergic reaction can cause these.
Though they can cause discomfort or pain, these are often benign and resolve without medical intervention.
Minor salivary gland obstructions in the lip can present as oedemas, which may fluctuate in size during meals due to increased saliva production.
Type one HSV, found in up to 70% of the population, is primarily transmitted through oral-to-oral contact and often causes blisters and cold sores in the throat.
The less common type two is mainly transmitted through sexual contact and typically results in genital herpes.
“If the lump persists for more than two to three weeks, or if you are concerned, have your dentist examine it to rule out cancer,” Dr Sharma continued.
Prolonged sun exposure, excessive alcohol consumption, and tobacco use often associate with lip cancer.
In the case of all cancers, early detection improves the prognosis.
Karen Coates, a registered dental nurse and spokesperson for the Oral Health Foundation, said, “Dental trauma is one of the possible causes of this type of lip lump.
This could be due to various factors, such as pressure from lip trapping, an old piercing, a sports injury, or the movement of snap-on teeth within the mouth.
Movement of implant-supported prostheses can sometimes cause damage to the surrounding tissues.
The Grammy-winning musician addressed backlash from social media users who claimed he was giving his Australian model wife too much space on his social media page while revealing the tumour in the video posted on Monday.
“Unlock your financial potential with free Webull shares in the UK.”
Over the years, numerous photos have shown an excess of West’s upper lip.
However, the lump seen in his Instagram story appears more pronounced than previously depicted.
Dr Emma Wedgeworth, a spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation and consultant dermatologist, said recent dental work could cause growths.
“Pyogenic granulomas,” which are red, raised, small bumps on the skin, “may develop following dental procedures,” she stated.
Exploring Dental Decor’s Hidden Dangers
Mucoceles, described as “harmless swollen cysts” and “small smooth swellings caused by trauma to the salivary glands,” are also common, she explained.
She added, “Although it is impossible to provide a definitive diagnosis, there are numerous potential causes for lesions observed on the lips.”
“Any lump that appears out of the ordinary on the lips or in the mouth should be examined by a dentist or physician to rule out any serious conditions.”
A few weeks ago, West posted an Instagram video showcasing his new metallic smile, drawing comparisons to the famous James Bond antagonist Jaws.
Grills, also known as grillz, are decorative coverings for teeth. Manufacturers typically make them from gold or another precious metal and can embellish them with gems such as diamonds or leave them plain.
Dentists snap on/snap off most of these coverings for the teeth, but they fix a subset in place using a special dental adhesive.
However, the flashy look is not without risks.
Dentists noted that the devices could trap plaque, and bacterial buildup could lead to periodontal disease, bad breath, and tooth decay.
Additionally, they warn that the adhesive used to attach the ‘grills’ may contain harmful chemicals that cause further damage to the teeth and gums.
