Oral Pathology

The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth & 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 pathological process or cancerous growth:

• Reddish Patches (Erythroplakia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
• A sore (or sores) that fail to heal & bleeds easily
• A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness and/or difficulty chewing or swallowing.

These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, & gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face, &/or neck. Pain does not always occur with pathology, & curiously, is not often associated with oral cancer. However, any patient with facial &/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. Remember that your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Please contact Integrative Dental Specialists of Long Island so we can assist you with any questions or concerns.