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 of a pathologic process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. The following 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 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 for oral cancer.

Our office would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly. Remember, your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Please contact our office if a suspicious area does not resolve itself.

Supporting Documents

Below are documents to help you before your visit and after.

Surgical Instructions

Anesthesia
Medicines to Avoid Prior to Surgery
Facial (Fraxel) Laser Surgery
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

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