Oral-Maxillofacial and Implant Surgery
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 at the beginning of a pathological process or cancerous growth:
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Reddish patches (erythroplasia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
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A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
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A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth
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Chronic sore throat or hoarseness and/or 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 for oral cancer.
We would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly. Remember that your mouth is one
of your body’s most important warning systems.Do not ignoresuspicious lumps or sores.
Please contact us so we can assist you with any questions or concerns.