Oral Pathology

Periodic examinations of the skin and mouth can detect early warning signs of cancer. Lesions of the face and mouth which do not heal within two weeks should be evaluated by a health care specialist. Concerning signs are red or white patches, non-healing ulcers, persistent swelling, sores that bleed, sores with firmness or thickening, or pigmented skin lesions with the "ABCD's" : Assymetry, Border irregularity, Color variegation, and large Diameter. Factors which may contribute to cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, excessive sun exposure, and family history.

Cyst or Tumors may also arise in the jaw bones. Such lesions may be the result of the developmental process of the teeth. Some of these growths can be locally aggressive, displacing teeth and destroying other structures in the area. A Panorex radiograph is a screening X-Ray for these tumors.

Your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat such lesions. Evaluation and treatment may include observation, biopsy, laser removal, or excision. Concerning areas are evaluated under a microscope to confirm a diagnosis.

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 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 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 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.