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 (abnormal) process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. While most lesions of the mouth are not cancerous, it is important to determine whether a biopsy and / or removal is necessary.  

The following can be signs at the beginning of a pathologic process or cancerous growth:

• 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 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 recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly and 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.