Oral Pathology
The inside of the mouth is normally lined with mucosal tissue that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign for a pathological process.
Oral pathology refers to the diagnosis and management of diseases pertaining to the oral and maxillofacial region, including infections, autoimmune conditions, and developmental or neoplastic processes. The most serious of these is oral cancer.
What are Some Signs I Need a Oral Exam?
The following can be signs at the beginning of a pathological process or cancerous growth:
- Red patches (erythroplakia), white patches (leukoplakia), or mixed (erythroleukoplakia)
- An ulcer that fails to heal or multiple recurring ulcers
- Burning sensations or taste alterations and/or dry mouth
- Red, inflamed gums that bleed easily or sloughing of mucosa
- A lump or thickening of mucosa lining the inside of the mouth
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness and difficulty in chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Pain within the oral cavity or around the jaws
These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face, and/or neck. We highly recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly. Your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems, as there are several oral manifestations of systemic disease. Never ignore suspicious lumps or sores.
Please contact us to schedule an appointment for biopsy services and a professional exam, so we can assist you with the proper treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is oral pathology?
Oral pathology is the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the mouth, jaws, lips, tongue, salivary glands, and surrounding facial tissues. These conditions can range from harmless sores and infections to precancerous lesions and oral cancer.
When should I have a suspicious sore or lump examined?
If you have a sore, lump, or patch inside your mouth that has not healed within two weeks, you should schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can help identify the cause and improve treatment outcomes.
What happens during an oral pathology exam?
During your visit, your oral surgeon will carefully examine your mouth, tongue, gums, cheeks, lips, and surrounding tissues. If an abnormal area is found, additional imaging or a biopsy may be recommended to determine an accurate diagnosis.
Does every abnormal spot in the mouth mean cancer?
No. Many oral lesions are caused by irritation, infections, trauma, or other noncancerous conditions. However, because some abnormalities can be precancerous or cancerous, it is important to have them professionally evaluated rather than waiting for them to resolve on their own.
What is an oral biopsy?
An oral biopsy is a simple procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from a suspicious area and sent to a laboratory for examination. The results help determine the exact diagnosis and guide the most appropriate treatment.
Who is at higher risk for oral cancer?
People who use tobacco products, drink alcohol heavily, have prolonged sun exposure to the lips, or have certain viral infections may have a higher risk of developing oral cancer. However, oral cancer can also occur in people without these risk factors, making routine examinations important.
Can oral cancer be treated successfully?
Yes. When oral cancer is detected in its early stages, treatment is often more effective and outcomes are generally better. Regular oral examinations and prompt evaluation of suspicious changes play an important role in early detection.
How often should I perform a self-examination of my mouth?
It is recommended to examine your mouth once a month. Look for red or white patches, sores that do not heal, unusual lumps, swelling, or changes in the appearance of your tongue, gums, cheeks, or lips. If you notice anything unusual, schedule an appointment promptly.
