PROCEDURES

Oral Medicine & Pathology

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 (disease) process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. The following conditions can be signs of the beginning of a pathologic process or cancerous growth:

Reddish patches (erythroplakia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
A sore that fails to heal and/or bleeds easily
An ulcer or white dry area on the lower or upper lip
A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth or lips
A noticeable swelling to the face or lower jaw
Unexplained movement of previously stable teeth
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 for oral cancer.

The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is especially trained in this very specialized area of pathology and oral medicine. Together with the Oral Pathologist, our doctors can help diagnose and treat all aspects of oral pathology including both soft and hard tissue abnormalities. When necessary, biopsies can be easily and quickly performed, and in most cases, with minimal post-operative discomfort.

We recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly, especially if you use tobacco products. Remember that your mouth is frequently the first area that illness can be found. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. When found and treated early, favorable outcomes are probable. Please contact us or your family dentist if you have any concerns.

return to top>