What IS that growth on Kanye’s upper lip? Experts explain…

Kanye West caused panic today after appearing to show a growth in the center of his upper lip.

The lump developed just weeks after the controversial rapper underwent experimental dental surgery to have $850,000 worth of titanium dentures fitted.

In an Instagram story, Ye filmed himself walking through an airport with his wife Bianca Censori, 29.

In addition to showing off his Bond villain-like teeth, social media users spotted a ‘bubble’ lump on his upper lip. Fans wondered what was ‘wrong’ with West’s lip.

Although unwilling to speculate, experts today explained that lumps with a similar shape could be caused by an allergic reaction or herpes (HSV). Others suggested that the titanium implants themselves could be to blame.

Although painful or uncomfortable, they often go away on their own within a few days.

Dr. Praveen Sharma, scientific adviser to the British Dental Association and a specialist in restorative dentistry, told MailOnline: ‘One of the most common causes of lumps on the lips is an infection with herpes.

‘These can also arise from physical trauma or an allergic reaction.

‘Sometimes these are painful or uncomfortable, but often harmless and go away without treatment.

‘Blocked minor salivary glands in the lip can also appear as swellings that can sometimes change size during meals when more saliva is produced.’

HSV type one, which is transmitted by up to 70 percent of people, is typically transmitted through oral-to-oral contact. It usually causes cold sores and blisters in the mouth.

Type two, which is less common, is primarily sexually transmitted and most commonly causes genital herpes.

Dr. Sharma added: ‘If the lump persists for more than two to three weeks, or if you are concerned, have it examined by your dentist to rule out cancer.

‘Common risk factors for lip cancer include prolonged sun exposure, heavy alcohol consumption and tobacco use.

‘As with all cancers, the earlier the condition is diagnosed, the better the outlook.’

Karen Coates, registered dental nurse and spokesperson for the Oral Health Foundation, said: ‘One of the possible causes of a lump like this on the lip is some form of dental trauma.

‘This can happen in a number of ways, including pressure from lip compression, an old piercing, a sports injury or injury from click teeth moving in the mouth.

‘Sometimes implant-supported dentures can move, causing trauma to the surrounding tissues.’

In the clip posted on Monday, tThe Grammy-winning music artist revealed the lump as he criticized comments from social media users who said he gave his Australian model wife too much space on his social media page.

An excess of West’s upper lip has been visible in many photos over the years.

But the growth noted in his Instagram Story appears fuller than previously recorded.

Dr. Emma Wedgeworth, dermatologist and spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation, told MailOnline that recent dental work can cause growths.

Pyogenic granulomas — small, raised, and red bumps on the skin — “can occur after dental work,” she said.

Mucoceles, or harmless swollen cysts, “are also common and are small, smooth swellings that result from trauma to the salivary glands,” she said.

“While it’s impossible to make a definitive diagnosis, there are many possibilities for lesions we see on the lips,” she added.

‘Any unusual lump on the lips or in the mouth should be assessed by a dentist or doctor to ensure there is nothing to worry about.’

Just a few weeks ago West showed off his new metallic smile in an Instagram post, comparing his look to the iconic one James Bond villain Jaws.

Grills/grillz are decorative coverings for teeth, usually made from a base of gold or other precious metal, which can then be left plain or encrusted with jewels such as diamonds.

While most examples are covers that can be snapped on and off the tooth(s) as needed, some are bonded directly with a special dental adhesive.

But the flashy look is not without risk.

Dentists are convinced the devices carry the risk of becoming a ‘plaque trap’, while a build-up of bacteria can lead to ‘tooth decay, smelly breath and gum disease’.

Glue used to insert the ‘grills’ may contain harmful chemicals that cause further damage to teeth and gums, they also warn.