Oral Pathology
While there is a wide variety of pathology that can present in the mouth, from benign to malignant lesions, soft tissue or hard, we strongly recommend a biopsy if there is something out of the ordinary. Any deviation from this normal appearance could indicate the presence of a pathological condition, with oral cancer being the most serious concern. The soft tissue lining of the mouth typically consists of a specialized type of tissue known as the mucosa, which is usually smooth and coral-pink in color. Early signs of a pathological process or cancerous growth may include:
- Red patches (erythroplakia), white patches (leukoplakia), or a combination of the two (erythroleukoplakia) in the mouth
- Sores that do not heal and bleed easily
- Lumps or thickening of the skin lining the inside of the mouth
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness. Difficulty with chewing or swallowing
- Non-healing extraction sockets or exposed bone
These changes may manifest on the lips, cheeks, palate, gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face, and neck. Pain is not always present with pathologic conditions. However, individuals experiencing facial or oral pain without an apparent cause should also be vigilant for signs of oral cancer.
We strongly advise performing a monthly self-examination of the oral cavity, looking for concerning changes or pathology. Oftentimes, the mouth serves as an essential warning system for your body and changes related to other systemic diseases can occur. Any suspicious lumps or or bumps or sores should not be ignored. Please reach out to us for assistance and guidance.
Choose Stuart Oral Surgery for Oral Pathology
Stuart Oral Surgery is a leader in comprehensive dental care, including oral pathology, in Carmel, IN. Contact our oral surgeon’s office at Coming Soon to schedule an appointment. We offer a wide range of billing plans to accommodate the unexpected cost of oral pathologies, such as oral cancer treatments.