Oral Pathology

The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign for a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. The following can be signs of concern:

• Reddish patches (erythroplasia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
• A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
• A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing

These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate and gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face and/or neck. Pain does not always occur with pathology, and curiously, is not often associated with oral cancer.  However, any patient with facial and/or oral pain without an obvious cause or reason may also be at risk and should be evaluated.

A biopsy can be performed easily in our office under a local anesthetic. Typically, a small sample of the tissue is taken and sent to the lab for testing.  The procedure takes only a few minutes and results are usually returned within 48 hours.

We would recommend performing a self-examination monthly by examining inside of your mouth for any signs of abnormality.  Remember that your mouth is one of your body's most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Please contact us so we may help.

IMPORTANT: Self-exams and regular check-ups with your dentist are important to ensure signs and symptoms of oral disease are not overlooked.