Oral Pathology

The mucosa (skin) in the mouth is normally 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 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
• Changes in sensation

These changes can be seen on the lips, cheeks, palate and gum tissue, tongue, face and/or neck. Different pathological entities produce various symptoms from changes in taste and/or sensation, pain, swelling, and sometimes elicit no noticeable changes.  However, any patient with facial and/or oral pain without an obvious cause should be evaluated by their primary dentist and referred to an oral surgeon if deemed necessary.   The key is never to ignore suspicious lumps or sores.