oral pathology

Normally, the tissues inside your mouth should be smooth and coral pink in color. When a change occurs in and around the mouth, it should be evaluated by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Pain does not always occur with oral pathologies, so it is important to know how your mouth typically looks and feels. Conducting an oral self-exam once a month is a good habit to get into. When you are more familiar with your mouth, you can tell if and when any changes occur. When caught early, most oral pathologies can be easily treated.

A biopsy is commonly conducted to confirm a diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment. An oral biopsy is a small tissue sample of the affected area, which is sent off to a lab for diagnosis. We can determine the appropriate treatment from the pathologist’s findings.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Pathologies

Most oral pathologies are benign, but it is important to rule out more serious diseases and conditions, such as oral cancer. The signs and symptoms are different from patient to patient. Common changes in and around the mouth that require an oral and maxillofacial surgeon include

• Patches in the mouth that are red or white in color

• A sore that bleeds easily or fails to heal

• Any lump or irregularity

• Chronic sore throat and/or persistent hoarseness

If you have noticed any of these changes to your mouth, or if you have noticed any other changes you feel are irregular, please call our office to schedule an appointment.