Oral Pathology
How do I know if I am at risk for oral cancer?
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 (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.
How do you detect signs of oral cancer?
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.
Regular, professional periodontal exams, cleanings and care is the best way to detect signs of oral pathology and oral cancer. If you have not been screened for oral cancer or if it has been longer than 6 months since your last periodontal visit, please call our office today to schedule an appointment with San Angelo periodontist, Dr. Austin Teitelbaum. One of our friendly and knowledgeable team members will be happy to assist you.